The centenarian's exceptional longevity is a testament to what regular exercise can offer
A woman from the Isle of Man who just turned 100 says the formula behind her exceptional longevity is staying active, eating well and drinking in moderation.
Lilian Pike continues to show up to her regular Stretch and Flex class at the Isle of Man’s National Sports Centre - which she’s attended every week for the past 20 years.
Beyond her exercise routine, the centenarian credits decades of eating properly and keeping her alcohol intake low for keeping her healthy.
The leader of the Stretch and Flex class, Elizabeth Corran, says Lilian’s consistency has made her a role model for the whole group.
She also praises her energy and outlook, noting that her example proves age is no barrier to adopting an active lifestyle.
"She is full of energy with a positive outlook on life and everything she does - this just shows that no one is too old to exercise," Elizabeth shared.
She also pointed out that Lilian’s continued independence is a testament to what regular exercise can offer.
Alongside her unwavering commitment to daily movement, family has clearly played a central role in Lilian’s life.
She described time spent with her children among her happiest memories - particularly family road trips in her Volkswagen Caravanette.
She also spoke of feeling deeply touched by all the birthday messages received and said she’d never expected such a warm response.
Her experience aligns with what medical experts around the world continue to stress about ageing well.
Doctor Mariam Zakhary, DO, clinical advisor at Ikon Recovery Centre, told GB News that for people aged 60 and over, the priority in exercise should be strength training.
This means squats, hip hinges, pushing movements, pulling movements and loaded carries.
According to the clinician, all these movements “engage multiple muscle groups and assist in preserving the necessary physical strength for performing daily functions, such as climbing stairs, standing up from a seated position, walking while carrying grocery bags and preventing falls”.
On the link between these workouts and longevity specifically, Doctor Zakhary explained that maintaining muscle mass and strength significantly reduces disability, loss of independence and all-cause mortality.
She added: “It’s not about lifting heavy weights, it’s about being able to challenge your body consistently throughout your life using functional movement patterns to maintain your ability to perform daily tasks effectively.”