A 90-year-old man from Stevenage says he “feels 70 and full of life” thanks to his three-times-a-week gym routine at Stevenage Arts and Leisure Centre - proving that age really is just a number.
John Gigg has been a member of the centre for 24 years and says the community he’s found there has kept him strong, both physically and mentally.
His story is being shared as part of Everyone Active’s Age is Just a Number campaign, which runs throughout October and November to encourage more over-60s to stay active and socially connected.
Now in its fifth year, the campaign aims to challenge stereotypes around ageing by sharing inspiring stories like John’s from across the country.
In 2009, John underwent hip and knee replacement surgery, but complications led to a serious infection that left him unable to walk. He spent nine months housebound before finally returning to the gym in a wheelchair.
With support from the exercise referral team at Stevenage Arts and Leisure Centre, John gradually rebuilt his strength and mobility, and was soon back on his feet.
“The fitness team helped me every step of the way,” he said. “Coming back to the gym gave me something to focus on, and seeing familiar faces again made a huge difference. I wouldn’t be where I am today without their support.”
John and his late wife, Freda, became familiar faces at the centre, attending the gym and classes six mornings a week. The couple were firm believers that fitness was about far more than just exercise.
“Freda always said the gym was a social club where we happened to do some exercise,” John laughed.
Sadly, Freda was later diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease and passed away in 2022. John says the friendships they built at the centre were vital for both of them.
“Coming here helped Freda so much,” he said. “It kept her mind and body active, and she loved seeing everyone. After she passed away, the support from my friends at the gym really helped me to keep going.”
Now, at 90, John still visits the gym three times a week and continues to inspire staff and fellow members alike.
“I’ve done 120 crunches today - as well as 20 minutes on the treadmill, 25 minutes on the bike and a few sets on the tricep dip, hip abductor and adductor machines,” he said. “I always leave feeling good. It’s a great social place - I love coming to see people. It gives me a purpose, rather than sitting at home doing nothing. You just feel better in yourself.”
Allan Prescott, Contract Manager for Everyone Active in Stevenage, said: “John’s story perfectly captures what our Age is Just a Number campaign stands for. His strength, positivity and commitment to staying active are remarkable. He’s a shining example of how exercise and community can transform lives at any age.”
Everyone Active, which manages Stevenage Arts and Leisure Centre in partnership with Stevenage Borough Council, supports older adults to stay active across its 230 centres nationwide, with more than 20,000 senior attendances each month.
For more information about the Age is Just a Number campaign and to find out about local activities for seniors, visit: www.everyoneactive.com/promotion/ageisjustanumber