Karl Versteeg
Five older guests join Marc Fennell to tackle sex, ageism, autonomy, death and the gap between how society sees them and who they really are. Plus, Marc finds out what it might take to live forever.
By Alanna Tomazin Updated August 23 2025 , first published August 22 2025 LIFTING weights at a Newcastle gym is keeping seniors out of aged care and in their own homes. To read the full article, go to: https://www.newcastleherald.com.au/story/9047301/seniors-in-newcastle-embrace-weightlifting-for-health-benefits/
I am amazed at how strong I have become in 18 months and still Improving.
A few ‘injury issues’ have been significantly reduced and my lower back feels much stronger,
I enjoy the satisfaction of steady improvement and meeting weekly challenges and achieving the
goals set.
So as a man of 67 years of age I feel the weight training that Karl has set me up with will continue to help me stay fit for the future.
When I get an escalator next to the stairs, I look forward to sprinting up the stairs because I can now! I am now used to physically challenging and exerting myself. I enjoy feeling robust.
Professionally, with continuing guidance, quality new equipment, space to move, it is clean, there are lots of laughs and a cuppa and a chat at the end of your session.
But, having committed I can see the start of improving fitness. I am looking forward to further improvements in my fitness and health.
The benefits to wellbeing and health, and prevention/mitigation of heart disease, cancer, dementia, depression and more are very well established.
At 70 years of age I am feeling stronger than ever before and lifting weights I had never imagined.