Kenneth Cooper

Kenneth H. Cooper, M.D., M.P.H., published his groundbreaking bestseller, "Aerobics," in 1968, introducing both a new word and a transformative concept to the global landscape. This publication marked the beginning of a worldwide fitness revolution, largely attributed to his efforts in preventive medicine research, compelling public appearances, and a prolific series of books. Initially an Air Force physician and a former track star from Oklahoma, he has played a pivotal role in changing the way people think about exercise and health.

Born on March 4, 1931, in Oklahoma City, the son of a dentist, Cooper chose a career in medicine over missionary work. He earned a B.S. degree in 1952 from the University of Oklahoma and an M.D. degree in 1956 from the University of Oklahoma School of Medicine. He furthered his education with a Master of Public Health degree from Harvard School of Public Health in 1962 while serving as an Air Force flight surgeon in Texas. During his 13 years in the military, Cooper was the director of the Aerospace Medical Laboratory in San Antonio and collaborated with NASA to prepare astronauts for space. In 1966, he was certified by the American Board of Preventive Medicine.

Two years after the release of "Aerobics," he resigned from the U.S. Air Force to fully dedicate himself to studying the relationship between exercise, health, and longevity. By 1970, he founded the Cooper Aerobics Center in Dallas, which later expanded with a second center at Craig Ranch in McKinney, Texas. His work at these centers and his 19 published books, which have sold over 30 million copies in 41 languages and Braille, demonstrate his commitment to fitness and wellness.

Dr. Cooper has been instrumental in promoting physical education and annual fitness testing in Texas schools, aiming to improve youth health and tackle childhood obesity through initiatives like Our Kids' Health. His recent works, including "Can Stress Heal?" and "Start Strong, Finish Strong," reflect his ongoing dedication to preventive medicine, emphasizing resilience and stress management.

With numerous accolades like the Woodrow Wilson Award for Public Service and the Lifetime Achievement Award from the President's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports, Dr. Cooper's influence is undeniable. He has lectured in over 50 countries, with a particularly notable impact in Brazil, where the term "coopering" is synonymous with running.

As chairman of 10 health companies and the nonprofit Cooper Institute, Dr. Cooper continues to champion the philosophy that maintaining good health through proper exercise, diet, and emotional balance is more feasible than trying to recover it once lost. His personal commitment to a healthy lifestyle, along with the support of his family and a dedicated team, keeps the mission of the Cooper Aerobics Center thriving into the new millennium.