Amazing Oldies: Exercise - any person, any age!

Only four weeks to summer - seems so close but so far, especially as half the country battles hail and floods. The idea of a hot Christmas with an early morning swim sounds like pure luxury. We are so ready to pack away our coats and jackets and pull out something light and breezy! With the change in seasons rapidly in coming, we expect to see more people out and about. The local Hyde Park becomes a hive of activity with coffee lovers, dog walkers, yoga and runners of all ages gathering to exercise and socialise. We were totally inspired by these amazing oldies that are fit, fabulous and showing that at any age you can learn new things, stay active and enjoy life.

We loved this short film directed and shot by Veena Rao. This features a routine from the synchronised swimming group: The Honeys and Bears. We enjoy that this group is so inclusive, with ages ranging from 58 to 96 and each member truly showing love and support to one another. Plus most of their members didn’t know how to swim until they were 65!

The Honeys and Bears were born in 1970 as a way to teach seniors water survival techniques and water therapy for soothing chronic illnesses. The recreation centre in which they practice has a pool lift for those who cannot use the stairs. Their choreographer, Oliver Footé, tailors their routines so that each member can participate, regardless of age or disability. The members say they feel the most free in the water, no longer needing their wheelchair and walkers. 96-year-old Lettice Graham says, “Without swimming, I’d be in the doctor’s office. It’s the best therapy.”

Filmed by Veena Rao, whose work has the theme of revealing the extraordinary in the everyday.

Watch the full video here on Veena’s website.

Locally, a 92 year old Perth swimmer Glad McGough has set a new state record for the age group in the 200m, the 400m, the 800m and the 1500m freestyle!  Ms McGough comments “I got a shock when people made such a big thing of it [the records], I just wanted to go for a swim,”  Read more about her achievements here.

Meanwhile in the Eastern States, Heather Lee (92) has set a world record for the 90-94 age group walking 3000m in 52 minutes. “I do it because I enjoy doing it, and I think I'm probably also trying to prove that 90-year-olds can, if you know what I mean.” For Heather, her personal goals remain her main motivation. “I’m not complaining, but I could have done a better time. I just could not seem to get my rhythm right. I would like to do that one again.” Read more about her achievement here.

We love seeing motivated people of all ages trying their best and pushing themselves. It reminds us that, it’s never too late to try something new.

If you have a story about an amazing oldie you know, we would love to hear from you! Contact us here.