Mary still pioneering fitness at age of 90

A PLYMOUTH woman is still teaching keep-fit classes – at the age of 90.

- CLARE AINSWORTH

Mary Lakeman marked her birthday – and 52 years of leading classes in Plymouth – by holding parties with her student members of the Plymouth Keep Fit Association. Some members of the class are aged over 90 themselves, with many aged in their 70s and 80s.

Mary also enjoyed a trip to Burgh Island with her family, and a meal on the Barbican to mark her birthday. But at the age of 90, she has no intention of giving up teaching fitness.

Mary said: “My class members have encouraged me to keep going – and, as long as I see smiles on their faces, I’ll keep going until my body tells me ‘enough!’

“Classes benefit members both physically and mentally. There’s a great social atmosphere, and we all support each other in good times and bad.

“As we grow older, it’s a great way to improve balance, mobility and co-ordination by moving to a wide variety of music.”

Mary joined her first Keep Fit class in Bristol when her daughters were small. She added: My dear late husband wanted me to have some time just for myself – and I’ve not looked back. After returning to live in Plymouth, I passed my teacher’s certificate and began my first class in 1972.”