80-year-old kicks off birthday at the gym

Ann Allsopp. Photo: Damjan Janevski

Ann Allsopp is 80 years old and celebrated her birthday on Saturday with a morning gym session – her third for the week – followed by a celebration with family.

The Altona North grandmother has been going to the gym for at least 50 years, and does step and pump classes with weights and aerobics three times a week at South Pacific Health Club, Williamstown.

Ms Allsopp is fitter than many half her age.

She shuns classes for seniors, preferring the more challenging workouts.

“I’ve just been lucky really that I can keep up,” she said. “I just love it.

“I get up early every day and I love to get there by 9.15 for the classes … the girls are wonderful to me. They just treat me like one of their own.

“I like to live a healthy life, and I’ve got other interests.

“I’m a patchworker and quilter, and that’s my relaxation … and I follow the football; I love to go to footy.”

The gym’s customer service manager, Narelle Knott, said Ms Allsopp was an inspiration for young and old alike.

“Ann is an inspiration to us all, and is a reminder how much I enjoy the fitness industry.”