An 82-year-old personal trainer explains how lifting weights helped him relieve arthritis and joint paint

At 82, Harry King exemplifies how exercise can transform one's life, especially after facing significant health challenges. Years ago, in his 50s, a doctor advised him to avoid stairs and limit walking due to severe arthritis in his knees. Despite this discouraging diagnosis, King has defied the odds by becoming an active participant in fitness, now working as a personal trainer at his local Planet Fitness and regularly engaging in activities like walking, hiking, and routine workouts.

King credits weight training as essential for managing his arthritis, stating that it has helped him strengthen the muscles around his knees, allowing him to regain mobility and enjoy an active lifestyle. Over the years, he has not only attained a second-degree black belt in karate but also participated in kayaking and hiking across South Carolina. King believes that staying active is crucial, noting, "I realize I do more than most 82-year-olds," and encourages others to take the first step toward fitness.

After a period of inactivity due to his arthritis diagnosis, King recognized the need for change when he faced limitations in pursuing adventurers like hiking the Matterhorn. Determined to reclaim his fitness, he sought a new doctor who helped him re-engage with physical activity. This journey led him to embrace the gym, where he felt a renewed sense of strength and capability in daily life.

Now, as a personal trainer, King aims to inspire others by sharing his enthusiasm for strength training. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining fitness without necessarily pushing through pain, aiming instead to facilitate regular movement. His exercise routine includes a mix of heart-healthy cardio and strength training, focusing on low-impact options like the elliptical or bike to protect his joints.

King's weightlifting regimen involves progressive overload to build strength safely, incorporating lower-body exercises such as leg presses and modified squats, along with upper-body workouts like lat pull-downs and bench presses. While he no longer lifts maximum weights, he still challenges himself with sessions that include impressive lifts, reinforcing his commitment to improvement and an active lifestyle.