89-Year-Old Gary Player Silences His Fitness Critics With Latest Workout Routine: ‘Age Is Just a Number’

Here’s something most of us can agree on: if you’re good at something, show it off to the world! Gary Player seems to live by that mantra, especially when it comes to his love of fitness. The 89-year-old South African golf legend is as famous for his obsession with staying in shape. “I am in the gym 90 minutes a day. I push 300 pounds with my legs, run the treadmill, do 200 sit-ups and exercise my fingers as well — the arthritis wants to get you. Don’t let it,” said Player when he was 87. But while his dedication has kept fans hooked, his self-praising habits? Let’s just say they’ve brought up a bit of controversy along the way.

In December 2024, just before his impressive performance at the PNC Championship, Player shared a clip where a journalist asked him about his gym routine. In response, he flexed his abs and gave them a few hits to show off his strength, saying, “Watch it, watch it. Eight! Shake! Shake!” Of course, Player expected a little praise for his abs, but it turns out that not every fan was thrilled with his flex. Yes, a faction of the audience was amused, but the rest weren’t so impressed. One commenter didn’t hold back, calling him an “unlikable human.” Ouch.

But fast forward to now, and Player’s throwback gym update seems to have won the crowd back. Recently, he took to social media, posting a clip of himself running on a treadmill before he left for an overnight flight.  Apparently, he always likes to exercise before he hops on a flight. At 89, most people might be enjoying retirement and spending time with family. But not Player. He shared that he typically ends his workouts on the treadmill. For him, it’s all about the mind and body connection.

Player has an ice bath and a warm one for circulation at his home to stay sharp and heal from his regime. He once shared that he thinks “Exercise is only 30 percent — diet is the rest. The greatest destroyer of mankind is over-eating. Two meals a day for me and I consider bacon and white bread poison. Sugar is a killer, but I love chocolate — do not judge me, please. With all of that, I play golf five times a week.”

As soon as he shared the video, fans quickly hailed him for his dedication to fitness and drive.

Fans rally behind Gary Player’s impressive zeal

As one fan puts it, “U r living proof that AGE IS JUST A NUMBER,” and honestly, it’s true in every sense. Fans not only appreciate Player’s relentless dedication to fitness, but many see him as a true role model. One fan summed it up perfectly: “Inspiring Mr Player, keep showing what’s possible!” And it’s not just the fans who hold him in high regard. The GOAT himself, Tiger Woods, has praised Player for his unmatched commitment to fitness. As Woods previously said, “Well, it’s a commitment to a lifestyle. You look at what Gary has done over the years. He’s still out here competing at 89 years old.”

Another admirer chimed in writing, “Love this! Now I have no excuse.” So, if you’re cozying up at home and using the weather as an excuse, maybe it’s time to take a little inspiration from Player and get moving.

Of course, Gary’s fans aren’t just inspired—they’ve got a good sense of humor about it too. One fan joked, “Gary never gets a slow pace of play warning!” Watching him sprint on a treadmill definitely makes that sound believable. But a fun fact: Player actually has received a slow play warning in his career. It happened back at the 1965 PGA Championship, though Player defended himself, saying it wasn’t his fault.

Another fan simply wrote, “You go Gary!  I still love watching you play.” And honestly, who wouldn’t? It’s not just his fitness that impresses—his golf game is still sharp. At the 2024 PNC Championship, Player competed alongside one of his 22 grandkids, Alexander Hall. On the final day, the 89-year-old wowed the crowd with an incredible eagle shot, proving why he’s still a legend of the game.

Another fan brought up a timeless Gary Player quote, writing, “‘Rest is rust.’ You said that ten years ago, and I love it 💪🏽.” That mindset is clearly alive and well. No wonder he keeps inspiring people to push their limits—even at 89.

What do you think of Player’s fitness? Let us know in the comments!