![At 93, John Watson does three gym sessions a week, keeping him both mobile and socially connected. Picture supplied At 93, John Watson does three gym sessions a week, keeping him both mobile and socially connected. Picture supplied](/images/transform/v1/crop/frm/172374647/a2056517-2f0b-4c4f-bb57-d3858d9d0b4c.jpg/r0_1084_4032_3028_w1200_h678_fmax.jpg)
John Watson says he's not the fittest bloke in the world, but he has been regularly going to gyms over several decades. These days he attends three mornings a week.
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"It's the same routine for me, I'm there from 7.30-9am, come home, have breakfast and a cup of tea, then read and do the crossword," he said.
The 93-year-old admits that since starting at his current gym, Genesis in Ringwood, 15 years ago, the number of exercises on his list has got smaller.
"When I started, I had a full page of exercises. Now it's down to about eight. But you've just got to keep everything moving so you don't stiffen up," he said.
"I live in a pretty big house with a big garden. It's a bit daunting at times. I find now if I do two hours work in one hit, I'm knackered."
Regular gym work keeps John mobile, but he says it's also about knowing your limitations. He knows first-hand how easily things can go wrong.
"In 2019, I was putting the rubbish out about 10pm, I had a bag of rubbish in each hand, it was raining and I slipped on the step. I took some skin off my arm and went to bed," he said.
"The next day I was sore and the day after, it was very painful...I had two broken ribs and was in hospital for two days.
"You've got to think positive and be aware of your surroundings. Be careful and watchful of what's around, and where you put your feet."
He has three children and four grandchildren, and neighbours who keep an eye out for him, has been "blessedly" free from ill-health and takes only minor medications.
But having lost Moyha, his wife of 58 years in 2020, John is also well aware that people of his age living alone have fewer avenues for social contact.
"Loneliness is a big problem - at night time there is no-one to talk to. You can be a bit selfish on your own and it's easy to look into yourself. I have my family but nearly all my old friends have gone now," he said.
"Many older people find it hard to be connected. I would hate to be without a car.
"The gym is great for social contact. Once a month we have lunch and other social gatherings. A lot of guys at the gym are pretty sharp, they keep you on your toes.
"I have a pretty good life as it is, but I can always do with someone to talk to."