‘More Than Physical Health’: Gym Helps 91-Year Old Battle Isolation

As the lockdown dragged on, Art Ballards health declined leaving him depressed and weak—until he got back to the gym

Art Ballard does a leg press. “At my age, the best thing you can do is find a routine.” Heidi de Marco, KHN

Most mornings, like clockwork, you could find Art Ballard pumping iron.

At least five days a week, he drove to Foothill Gym, where he beat on the punching bag, rode a stationary bike, and worked his abs. After he joined the gym five years ago, he dropped 20 pounds, improved his balance, and made friends.