But then most people aren’t super fit great-grandmother, Agnes Evans!
The Astley pensioner has been a regular at Howe Bridge Sports Centre, Atherton for more than a decade after signing up to the gym at the tender age of 80!
Now, she’s hoping to encourage more people to roll back the years and enjoy a healthier, happier older age.
“I feel so much healthier after I’ve been to the gym,” said Agnes “There’s no reason why people of my age shouldn’t come and keep themselves fit. It’s better than being sat at home. It’s not just about a healthy body but also a healthy mind. You socialise with people, it’s as much a social club as a gym.”
Agnes visits the gym twice a week and while she avoids some of the more demanding cardiovascular workouts, such as cross trainers, she manages a circuit of equipment that strengthens her legs and upper body.
Her daughter Marlene signed her mum up when she turned 80.
She said: “Everybody’s amazed by what she can do. She doesn’t take medication, she’s extremely strong, she’s happy and because she’s healthy she’s helping reduce the cost to the NHS.
“If more older people were taught to look after their bodies better, the saving would be massive.”
In recognition of her commitment Wigan Leisure & Culture Trust, who manage the gym on behalf of the council, waived her membership fee when she turned 90.
Rodney Hill, Chief Executive of WLCT, said: “Agnes is an inspiration to us all. To be so fit and active at 90 is certainly something we can all aspire to.”
To find out more about your local gym simple call in and pick up a leaflet or visit Wigan Leisure & Culture Trust (external link)
