Fred Spring, Personal Trainer and Wellness Warrior
Fred Spring’s journey embodies the timeless truth: it’s never too late to rewrite your story and pursue your passion. At 60, he traded his marketing desk job for a career in fitness, becoming a certified personal trainer and founding Fred-X. With a blend of strength, conditioning and wellness teachings, Spring empowers men and women over 50 to redefine their limits and embrace vitality. Despite grappling with physical challenges like soft-tissue cancer, Fred remains undeterred, finding fulfillment in transforming lives through fitness and adventure in everything from ice hockey to global explorations.
Why did you decide to leave your desk job and start something new at 60?
I decided to move away from my marketing job and into a career that aligned with my life’s purpose. Eighty percent of individuals over 50 think it’s too late to improve their fitness. This misconception is disheartening and I’ve made it my mission to be a beacon of health, showing men and women at 50 that transformation is possible at any age.
What are some obstacles you’ve had to overcome?
Several physical challenges, including soft-tissue cancer, a shattered ankle, a broken leg, multiple knee surgeries and some mental “funks” have impacted me along my journey. Conquering these health challenges has transformed me. They have empowered me to embrace life fully, reminded me of the fragility and value of health, taught me the importance of self-care and encouraged me to be proactive about my well-being. I have also learned the importance of giving back to others. Most recently, I raised money for St. Baldrick’s Foundation’s childhood cancer research, taking donations in turn for shaving my head.
What is the key to staying young at heart?
There is no age limit for wellness. I believe the key to staying young at heart is to play and to find joy in movement (biking, hiking, walking, skating).
What do you think is the best part of being in your 60s?
Two things: First, going back to the things that I loved in my 40s—like playing ice hockey which I do weekly. Secondly, I love exploring new places and experiences like traveling to new countries.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
In 10 years, I will be playing with my grandkids with wild abandon and pure energy, and hopefully, in 20 years, I will be doing the same thing with our great-grandkids!
