Inspirational 90-year-old proves age just a number with gym dedication
By Jadius McGhee
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LA CROSSE, Wisconsin (WKBT) — While most people slow down as they age, Gary Raabel is doing the opposite. At nearly 90 years old, the La Crosse man continues to prove that age is just a number through his unwavering commitment to fitness.
Raabel has made exercise a cornerstone of his life for nearly seven decades, transitioning from his military service in the Army to a dedicated routine in the weight room. His passion for fitness has only intensified with age.
“I’ve been going to the gym ever since I was 20 years old. The last 20 years, I’ve been coming to the gym now just about all the time. I just love it, you know?” Raabel said.
At Premier Fitness in La Crosse, Raabel has become something of a legend. Staff members say he stands out not just for his age, but for the intensity and dedication he brings to every workout.
“When he lifts he’s literally like a machine. He’s not your average 90-year-old. He lifts heavier than a lot of my 30-year-olds in here,” said Sally Johnson, owner of Premier Fitness & Wellness. “He really is the epitome of what you can expect to have happen to you if you stay strong and you keep moving.”
Raabel’s influence extends beyond his personal achievements. Fellow gym members say his work ethic and positive attitude have become a daily source of motivation for everyone around him.
“He is quite the motivator. We come in every day. He gets up, comes in every day. Does this workout, you know, it’s all about being healthy, a mind, body and spirit. And Gary is the epitome of all those things,” said Toni Schultz, a friend of Raabel’s at the gym.
Alvis Norman, another friend, sees Raabel’s story as inspiration for people of all ages. “It’s a story for everybody that’s either his age or trying to get to his age that you can do this if you put the effort into it,” Norman said.
For those looking to follow in his footsteps, Raabel offers straightforward advice rooted in decades of experience.
“You got to exercise to stay fit. It’s kind of hard to start when you’re in the last stage of your life. You know. But, if you do exercise, then you should just stay with it year after year,” Raabel said.
The nearly 90-year-old shows no signs of slowing down. Raabel says he plans to stay active for as long as his body will allow him to, continuing to inspire others through his remarkable dedication to health and fitness.
His story serves as a powerful reminder that maintaining an active lifestyle can lead to extraordinary results, regardless of age. At Premier Fitness, Raabel continues to redefine what it means to age gracefully while motivating others to pursue their own fitness goals.
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