When Kenneth H. Cooper, M.D., M.P.H., published his first bestseller, Aerobics, in 1968, he introduced a new word and a new concept to America. March 2008 marks the 40th anniversary of the revolutionary book that launched a worldwide fitness revolution. Today Dr. Cooper is recognized as the leader of the international physical fitness movement and credited with motivating more people to exercise in pursuit of good health than any other person. In 1968, only 100,000 people were jogging in America. That number is now more than 30 million strong, thanks to the work and influence of Dr. Cooper.

Born March 4, 1931, in Oklahoma City, Dr. Cooper’s father, a periodontist, instilled in him the idea and desire to practice preventive medicine. With a natural ability in sports and a strong academic mind, Dr. Cooper completed his undergraduate and medical degrees at the University of Oklahoma. He also holds a Master of Public Health degree from the Harvard University School of Public Health.

Dr. Cooper joined the military in 1957. During his 13 years of service in the U.S...