In an inspiring display of longevity and vitality, legendary actor Dick Van Dyke, 99, recently left ’80s rock icon Rick Springfield, 76, in awe with his energetic workout routine at a Malibu gym. The encounter, which took place on Friday, September 26, quickly went viral after Springfield shared a photo and heartfelt message praising Van Dyke’s impressive fitness regimen.
A Chance Encounter at the Gym
Rick Springfield, known for his hit song “Jessie’s Girl,” was reportedly filming an episode for Men’s Health when he unexpectedly ran into Van Dyke. Springfield documented the moment on Instagram, posting a photo of the two stars flexing their muscles. The image shows Van Dyke, seated on a weight machine and holding his cane, matching Springfield’s playful boxing pose and bicep flex.
Springfield’s caption conveyed his astonishment: “I went to the gym and who should be there but 99-year-old Dick Van Dyke working out on every machine.” He further added, “Dick has lived in Malibu for about 30 years and is an awesome human being.”
Van Dyke’s Enduring Vitality
The “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang” star’s dedication to fitness deeply impressed Springfield, who admitted, “I thought I was doing well at 76, but Dick got up from the chest press machine and did a little dance step before I left! Amazing!” This energetic gesture highlighted Van Dyke’s remarkable spirit and physical condition as he approaches his 100th birthday on December 13.
Van Dyke has long been an advocate for an active lifestyle, consistently demonstrating that age is merely a number when it comes to health and fitness. In 2021, at the age of 95, he shared his at-home workout routine with CBS This Morning, showcasing crunches and other exercises, noting that many of his friends wouldn’t attempt them.
Inspiring Fans and Fellow Celebrities
The viral gym selfie resonated widely, drawing thousands of likes and comments from fans who celebrated Van Dyke’s longevity and inspiring energy. Comments poured in, with many calling him a “legend” and expressing motivation to restart their own fitness journeys. One fan exclaimed, “At 60, now I’m motivated to go back to the gym!”
Rick Springfield himself is no stranger to fitness, having often spoken about his own rigorous exercise routine and describing himself as a “whore” for the gym. He shared with People that he exercises daily, and his band’s performances serve as a two-hour aerobic workout. Springfield even quipped about his preference for gym chains, calling them “Planet Fitness whores” due to their consistent availability.
A Legacy of Health and Happiness
This public display of vitality comes as Dick Van Dyke is set to release his autobiographical collection, 100 Rules for Living to 100: An Optimist’s Guide to a Happy Life, on November 18. The book is expected to offer insights into his long and fulfilling life, including his approach to maintaining physical and mental well-being.
Despite a recent health setback in June that caused him to miss a comedy fundraiser named in his honor, Van Dyke’s latest gym appearance underscores his resilience and unwavering commitment to an active lifestyle. As his wife, Arlene Silver, noted during his absence from the June event, “When you’re 99 and a half years old, you have good days and bad days.” This recent encounter with Rick Springfield clearly falls into the category of an exceptionally good, and incredibly inspiring, day.
