LAKEPORT >> Gaylord Starin, more commonly known as “Doc,” recently turned 95. He attributes his longevity to working out.
“I keep myself in shape by going to the gym three times a week,” Starin said.
His workouts of choice are using the rowing machine, treadmill and lifting weights. “Being on the rowing machine makes me think of the song ‘Cruising Down the River’ (on a Sunday afternoon),” Starin said.
“Doc,” as he is referred to by his friends, ran cross country in high school, which is part of what led him in the direction of fitness. In addition, he spent many summers waterskiing on Clear Lake off the shores of Soda Bay.
“It (working out) gives you a good outlook on life and helps you to stay positive,” Starin explained. “It brings you joy, camaraderie, and gets you away from the worries of the world.” He added with a chuckle, “I call it divorce. The only time using the word divorce is a good thing.”
City Fitness member Derek Butcher describes Starin as a great guy who is always positive.
“Every morning that I am at the gym Doc asks, ‘How are you my friend?’ Every time I see him, he is carrying a beat up old binder. After each of his workouts, he writes down exactly what exercise he just completed. He jokingly says his memory works better that way,” Butcher said.
Starin is a retired Periodontist. He practiced in San Francisco until he retired in 1984. Originally from Lake County in 1956, Starin made his way back in 1989 where he has enjoyed his retirement ever since.
He joined the Sutter Wellness Center in 2001 and frequently worked out at that facility until they closed. At first he was unsure where he would go from there. He checked out other gyms in the area and found City Fitness to be the perfect fit for him.
He is described by fellow gym member, Jeff Cerini, as thoughtful.
“Doc is very dedicated,” Cerini said.
“City Fitness just loves this man. Ninety-five years old, still a licensed driver and still hitting the gym like a pro. We are grateful for his inspiration. He is always smiling, from the time he drives up in his old green Jeep until the time he leaves. We always can’t wait to see what socks he is rocking each day. He comes in, socializes for a bit, and then gets to work. He has become part of our gym,” owners, Sara and Adam Maclean said in agreement.
