Anyone who works out knows: while it’s hard to start a routine, the rewards are endless. However, it’s important to remember: you don’t need to have a perfect body to enjoy the gym’s benefits. Just as this 91-year-old from Alabama who has become a fitness inspiration to everyone!
91-Year-Old Fitness Inspiration
Even if you head to the gym every day, it’s unlikely you’ll meet someone like Lloyd Black. This 91-year-old retired teacher decided to start working out to manage his health. As such, Black became a member of Anytime Fitness in Semmes, Alabama, in January. Almost overnight, he became something of a local legend. Now, thanks to the power of social media, Black is inspiring people all around the world. He really hit it big when Ashley Seaman, the gym’s general manager, posted about him on Facebook. Now, this post is long over 3,000 shares and likes.
“We wanted to take a moment to congratulate our newest member of the month…Mr.Lloyd Black! Mr. Black became a part of our anytime family 1 year ago and we have seen nothing but motivation and inspiration from him since he started. He says he is 91 years young and brags about how much his workout routine has helped him in his daily routines. Seeing someone like him inspires others to keep it up and incorporate fitness into their life. Seeing him in the gym 3 times a week working out in his overalls brightens our day and we hope to have him many more years to come!” Seaman wrote in the post.
The “Overalls Man”
When can you meet Black at his local gym? Well, he tries to make about three trips to the place a week and stay consistent with his routine. While his lifestyle is still very active, he needs to be in shape to keep up with it. Black says that even some usual chores and working in the yard had become hard for him, and working out helps a lot. “I am also motivated by my daddy. He was a man who never gave up and so I hope I’ve inherited some of his traits,” he said. At the gym, Black usually spends most of his time on the treadmill. Then he works out his upper body and legs. As Seaman stated, he started with only 10 minutes on the treadmill. Now, though, he can go up to 30 and likes to boast about it!
How can you spot Black at the gym? That’s easy! While others come here in joggers and loose T-shirts, this 91-year-old prefers plain blue jean overalls and some sneakers. “They’re comfortable and it’s what I have,” Black explained. Seaman also said that the retired teacher is very friendly with her and other members, super dedicated to his routine and hardworking. He likes to make friends with others.
“I don’t feel very comfortable being in the limelight, but if it encourages someone else then I’m willing to do it,” Black said. “You have to decide for yourself, but do you want to be a happy person or a grouch? And I’ve decided to be a happy person. The good Lord has blessed me with good health.”
Sources: Fox 5 Atlanta, Good Morning America.