Inspiration...88-year-old gym fanatic with ‘no plans to stop’
A FORMER doctor is fighting fit at the age of 88 thanks to a 90-minute gym routine three times a week – although he does need a nap afterwards.
Martin Berger has clocked up more than 3,500 visits to the gym in 31 years.
And he swears by Shredded Wheat with four prunes for breakfast to fuel his regime.
The former Royal Naval Reserve surgeon arrives at the gym at 8am every Monday, Wednesday and Friday for sessions on a rowing machine, treadmill, bike, leg extension machine and weights.
He aims to burn off 150 calories each time, measured on the machines’ digital screens.
Widower Martin, of Adel, Leeds, has been doing the same workout for 10 years.
He said: “I have no reason to stop. I have got an ambition to keep going until I’m 90 at least. It’s an important part of my life.
“It sets me up for the day. There’s no time to be miserable, it’s what you do.
“Exercise is an answer to lots of problems. It keeps you fit and free from stress. I have no plans to stop.” He added: “I have a Shredded Wheat, four prunes and a cup of tea every morning.
“When I come home I have a crumpet with some honey, read the newspaper and fall asleep for 10 minutes.”
Martin was a GP for 42 years and had only two weeks off sick before retiring at age 70.
In 2006 he set a Rubik’s Cube speed record for his age category.
He has never smoked and quit drinking three years ago.
Trainer Richard Scanlon, who has known Martin for 19 years, said: “Martin is inspirational. He walks the talk.” Retired GP Martin Berger, 88, on a rowing machine at the gym in Leeds where he completes 90-minute workouts three times a week