What to do in 60 Days Before You Turn 60

What to do in 60 Days Before You Turn 60
Interview of Harvey Berger by Nichole DeHart

I am privileged to work with one of the most inspiring members of Invictus. Harvey Berger, who turns 60 this week, has not only transformed his physique, but he has also transformed his mindset. He is one of the most determined people you will ever meet and has worked hard to transform his health. He is now off numerous medications, some for high blood pressure and diabetes, and is setting personal records all over the place. If you haven’t met Harvey yet, then here is a small introduction to one of the most inspiring 60 year olds you will ever meet!

So Harvey, do you have any sage advice for those aspiring to be like you when they turn 60.

Start CrossFit at 55. If you can’t start at 55, then start at 56. Don’t be worried about the age that you start CrossFit at. The important thing is that you start doing it as soon as possible!

Describe the best part of Invictus.

The people. Not just the coaches, but everybody who works out together. When you watch someone put out 100% or you work out with someone on a team, there is a connection that is created that is different than any other relationship.

Name 3 exercises that you love.

Whatever Nichole tells me to do and rowing.

What is your favorite workout?

Laying on the couch with a chocolate bar and lifting my hand to my mouth. Oh wait . . . or in the alternative, anything Nichole tells me to do.

How has Invictus affected your life?

It has completely changed my life. One of my great joys in life is looking forward to going to the gym every day. It has made me healthy, happier, more self confident, less stressed and I just love it.

What are you doing for your 60th birthday?

I can’t say because Nichole would not approve but it involves a lot of partying.

What are your future goals?

I am hoping to hit 16 goals in the 60 days before 60 (I am currently at 14 pr’s). As far as my future goals, I would like to at least hit that many pr’s in the 65 days before 65 and the 70 in the 70 days before 70. In other words, I want to continue to get better.

When are you going to start training for the 60 and up masters division?

I will start training for the master division at Games when CJ starts giving me a 10% discount because of my age.

If you were a superhero, what superhero would you be.

Shachole – a combination of Shane and Nichole! They are my superheroes!

If you could change your name to anything, what would it be?

Having been born and raised with the name Harvey Berger and being laughed at for 60 years, I don’t think I would bother changing it at this point.

Who do you like better, Nichole or Michele?

M put up with me when I started – she had to put up with a ton of bitching so she always has a special place in my heart. But Nichole is the happiest place on earth.

What has been the best moment of your Invictus career?

Every PR since January 28th – I am at 14! Only 2 more to go before I turn 60!

If you could be an animal, what animal would you be?

One of my dogs . . . what a life!

What would your life look like if you were not part of Invictus?

I would be a medical mess.

If you were to describe Invictus in one word, what would it be?

My life.
(Nichole: That is two words Harvey.
Harvey: When you are 60 you don’t have to play by the rules)

Last question, boxers or briefs.

Boxers . . . except when rowing, then it is compression shorts.