HARRISBURG, Pa. — Bill Keister, a competitive powerlifter from Harrisburg, has dedicated more than 30 years to pushing his physical limits, earning multiple titles, including a world title. Keister recently earned another achievement, turning 60 years old, proving that age is just a number.
"To me, 60 is just a number. I feel like I’m 20. You get old when you stop lifting," Keister shared, as he prepared to bench press 315 pounds to warm up. This month, he demonstrated his continued skill in the sport by earning a state and national title as a member of the National Powerlifting League, bench pressing a total of 352.74 pounds.
Keister has been powerlifting since the 1990's for charity events and fundraisers, but was never interested in taking it further until he began training with his son, Garrett Keister, who encouraged him to compete. A decision that has led him to an undefeated career in his age and weight class. Throughout his powerlifting career, Keister has earned seven state titles, three national titles, and one world title.
Despite the individual nature of powerlifting, Keister emphasizes that he hasn’t faced these challenges alone. Recently, he received support from the Swatara Township Police Department, which sponsored him with $100 towards his competition. This gesture signifies not just a financial backing, but also a deeper bond emerging between Keister and local law enforcement.
"It meant more to me because it’s good to be on their side instead of doing dumb things, so I’m grateful, very grateful," he expressed. Keister acknowledged that his past wasn't always filled with the right choices, but he has taken steps to forge a positive path, both personally and within his community.
The relationship between powerlifting and the police force, Keister stated, is something he hopes to continue, saying he plans to represent the department again at his next big competition when he goes for a second world title.
In addition to his relationship with law enforcement, Bill has also formed a close-knit bond with Casey and Corey Bond, his coworkers from the steel mill Cleveland Cliffs Inc. in Dauphin County. The trio not only encourages each other at work but supports each other's fitness journeys, lifting weights together in their free time.
"We are inspired by him, you know, for his age and where he’s been to where he is now," Corey shared. Casey added, "He’s very driven, he definitely helps us push."
For Keister, these friendships are achievements of their own, meaningful enough to outshine any medal or trophy. “With these guys here, they’re like family to me. They’re not blood, but they’re still family,” Keister noted, underscoring the importance of community in his powerlifting journey.