96-year-old wows netizens with regular gym workouts

She works out for 45 minutes, starting with a 30-minute walk on the treadmill, followed by weight lifting and ending with machine-assisted pull-ups. Exercising with younger people helps her feel rejuvenated and keeps her motivated, she says.

"I only skip the gym if I’m unwell or have urgent matters at home. Exercising has become an enjoyable part of my old age, helping me feel less lonely since my grandchildren are often busy with school and work."

Nguyen Thi Huynh (left) during her gym workout in late July 2024. Photo courtesy of her family

Huynh has maintained a commitment to fitness throughout her life. Even in her youth, while working long hours in the rice fields, she would walk four or five kilometers daily. Now, approaching 100 and after nine children, 29 grandchildren, 36 great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren, she remains active.

In April her grandson Vo Ta Nam told her to try the gym to avoid walking alone outdoors, where the weather can often be unpredictable or unpleasant. Initially hesitant due to the presence of younger people and unfamiliar equipment, she eventually agreed to join.

Trainer Luu Van Phuong initially thought Huynh was only there to watch her grandson, but he was surprised when she requested to sign up. Phuong, who has years of experience in fitness coaching, had never seen a client her age. On the first day she was introduced to the treadmill, starting at a speed of six kilometers. After a few minutes she asked Phuong to double the speed. "She exercises with youthful energy, even dancing to the music while working out. She is more dedicated than some of the younger members."

Nam says she can lift weights of 10-15 kg and has the endurance of a younger person on the treadmill. Nevertheless, he ensures she exercises moderately and constantly supervises her to make sure she is safe.

With her regular gym visits, Huynh’s appetite has improved. Due to her lack of teeth, she mainly consumes soft food, typically two small bowls of rice per meal. However, after working out, she sometimes finishes a large bowl. She particularly enjoys banh trang tron (a snack made with sliced rice paper and various fillings) and ice cream. Since starting her gym routine, she has gained three or four kilograms.

Nguyen Thi Huynh (right), 96, from central Ha Tinh province, exercises under the guidance of her grandson, Vo Ta Nam, in July 2024. Photo courtesy of Huynh's family

"My grandmother remains mentally sharp and handles her personal needs independently. In her free time, she even helps us clean the house and cook meals," Nam says. He regularly films her gym sessions and shares them on social media, where her videos have garnered millions of likes. Viewers express admiration, saying, "I hope to be as healthy as her when I get older" and "What a lovely bond between grandmother and grandson."

Some also express concern for her safety. Nam says fitness has been his grandmother’s passion for decades, and taking her to the gym allows him to spend more time with her while ensuring her safety.

"She lived a hard life. My grandfather passed away 27 years ago. Now that we are financially stable we want to create joyful memories with her."

Huynh also enjoys swimming with her grandchildren every weekend. She remains passionate about traveling, and hopes to visit several provinces and cities every year to explore new places. Her most recent trip was to Phong Nha-Ke Bang in Quang Binh, 140 kilometers from home, to visit relatives.

"At my age, being able to exercise with my grandchildren and travel to many places gives me great satisfaction," she says.

 

 

96-year-old wows netizens with regular gym workouts

Cụ bà 96 tuổi ở Hà Tĩnh 'nghiện' tập gym