30 Oct 2024
A Harpenden nonagenarian is defying age stereotypes through her dedication to staying fit, writes Olivia Thompson.
Jean Grant, 93, claims she is “stronger than ever” and says she is determined to keep others her age out of wheelchairs by staying active.
Over the past year, her fitness journey at Harpenden Leisure Centre has shown age is no barrier to strength and independence.
Attending twice weekly personal training sessions with Kierna McPhillips, she has seen significant improvements in both her physical and mental wellbeing.
Jean said: “I started seeing Kieran one year ago doing a session once a week. I enjoyed it so much that I decided that I must start going twice a week. I have seen a huge difference in my physical and mental health. I can honestly say it is the highlight of my week.”
Fitness manager at the leisure centre, Alice Rollinson said: “What started as weekly sessions with Kieran quickly became twice-weekly workouts as Jean’s passion for fitness grew.
“Each session is carefully structured, starting with a gentle warm-up, before progressing through a variety of exercises. The improvements we’ve seen are incredible. What’s particularly inspiring is her enthusiasm to challenge herself – sometimes she’ the one asking to increase the weights!
“Through regular strength and flexibility training, Jean tells us she feels stronger than ever and a decade younger. She’s a perfect example of how the right support and dedication can transform someone’s fitness at any age.”
Everyone Active, which manages Harpenden Leisure Centre in partnership with SADC is now featuring Jean’s story as part of its ‘Age is Just a Number’ campaign, which aims to
promote active lifestyles among seniors and challenge age-related stereotypes.
Everyone Active’s area contract manager, Steve Cox said, “Jean’s story perfectly captures our Age is Just a Number campaign. Her dedication at 93 is truly inspiring, showing that with the right mindset and support, age is no barrier to staying fit.
Jean is also passionate about encouraging others her age to maintain their independence through exercise.
“Many people my age end up needing wheelchairs or walking sticks when they’re actually still capable of walking independently,” she says.
“If they could just maintain occasional exercise, they could continue walking freely without assistance. Once you stop using your muscles regularly, they become significantly weaker.
“That’s why I’m committed to my twice-weekly sessions with Kieran.”
She acknowledges that gyms can be initially daunting for those unfamiliar, but Jean urges other senior to take the leap.
“Make the same decision I did – I promise you won’t regret it! Regular exercise and strength training are essential for longevity and a healthy life.”
For more information about Age is Just a Number, visit: www.everyoneactive.com/promotion/ageisjustanumber/
