Ric Hartig, 78, has spent his entire life lifting weights, and his dedication to strength training has been crucial in helping him overcome numerous health challenges, including two types of cancer, a shoulder replacement, and various other ailments.
Hartig’s fitness journey began in the 1960s at a gym in downtown Indianapolis, which he describes as a “medieval torture chamber.” Despite the gym’s tough environment, it was home to several accomplished bodybuilders, and Hartig quickly immersed himself in strength training.
After joining the Marine Corps in 1966, Hartig briefly paused his weightlifting routine, focusing instead on calisthenics. He served two years in the military, including 13 months in Vietnam, before returning to weightlifting. His love for the sport grew, and he even competed in bodybuilding competitions during the 1980s, an experience he describes as both challenging and rewarding.
Battling Cancer Twice
Hartig has faced significant health battles throughout his life, starting with kidney cancer in 2002. “I lost strength, weight, and slept a lot, but I was fortunate that it was caught early,” he recalls. Following surgery to remove the cancerous kidney, he regained his strength and returned to the gym.
In 2017, while working out at LifeTime Fitness, Hartig noticed significant weight loss again, signaling the return of cancer—this time in his pancreas. He dropped to 130 pounds and was extremely weak. Doctors performed extensive surgery, removing his pancreas, gallbladder, spleen, and part of his stomach. The surgery led to diabetes, but Hartig’s recovery was once again fueled by his commitment to weightlifting.
Hartig’s cancers are believed to be linked to water contamination at Camp Lejeune, where he was stationed during his time in the Marine Corps.
His health struggles continued with the development of an ulcer, which required hospitalization while visiting Pittsburgh for a football game. However, after recovering, Hartig returned to weightlifting, continuing to rebuild his strength.
Overcoming Shoulder Pain and Arthritis
In addition to his cancer battles, Hartig worked for 36 years at a phone and cable company, where he frequently climbed poles and installed systems. This demanding physical work took a toll on his shoulder, exacerbating his rheumatoid arthritis. The pain eventually became unbearable, affecting his ability to complete everyday tasks.
In 2010, Hartig underwent a total reverse shoulder replacement. He was back in the gym within three months, gradually regaining mobility and strength in his shoulder. “Every time I’ve faced a physical challenge, I get back in the gym and start over,” he says.
A Commitment to Fitness
Hartig remains dedicated to fitness, working out five or six days a week for about two hours each session. While his stamina has decreased with age, he remains committed to training hard. He targets a different body part each day, focusing on legs, arms, back, chest, and shoulders. For his leg presses, he works up to 1,000 pounds, which remains one of his impressive feats.
“I can’t move as quickly as I used to, and I need breaks in between sets, but I still give it my all,” Hartig explains. While aging has impacted his strength, particularly in his chest and shoulders due to his shoulder replacement, his determination is unwavering.
Inspiring Others
Hartig’s relentless work ethic has inspired many, including Jarred Hubbard, a trainer at LifeTime Fitness. When Hubbard began working at the gym eight months ago, he initially thought Hartig might need assistance. However, after learning that Hartig had once competed in bodybuilding, Hubbard realized that he was the one who could learn from him.
“We’ve developed a rapport,” Hubbard says. “He inspires me. He doesn’t stop. Most older people come in two or three days a week, but he’s here every day. I’ve never seen someone so consistent or dedicated at his age.”
Strength Training for All Ages
Hartig encourages people of all ages to embrace weightlifting. “It’s never too late to start, even if you’re older,” he says. “It’s a great way to stay healthy and motivated.” He believes the benefits of strength training extend far beyond physical fitness. “Exercising regularly has helped me recover and cope with aging,” he adds. “Working out has carried me through just about everything.”
Hartig’s story serves as a powerful reminder that dedication to physical health can help individuals overcome life’s toughest challenges, regardless of age.
