97-year-old New Orleans grandma stays fit working out every day

NEW ORLEANS ( WGNO ) — A New Orleans woman won’t let her age define her lifestyle. This “super senior,” who is 97 years old, is staying active by working out every day.

Like most grandmas, Mary Lou Main likes to sit in her rocking chair and rock, but this granny really knows how to rock!

Main is 97 years old, and she works out every day. She takes Humana’s “ Silver Sneakers ” exercise classes virtually with other “super seniors.”

“You don’t realize you are exercising because she makes everything so fun and you look forward to it,” said Main.

The classes, which make her feel healthy and young, are led by her instructor Deana Palmisano Lejarza.

“I teach 13 different Zoom classes a week,” she said.

Lejarza and Main share a connection. They both went to Ursuline Academy 45 years apart. Now, exercising bonds them together.

“She always comes to classes with bells on. She always has a smile on her face, and she always uses humor to inspire us,” said Lejarza.

“I don’t feel old. I don’t realize I’m 97. I don’t feel it and I don’t look it,” said Main.

For her, it is all about feeling strong and living long.

“No complaints at all. As long as I can make my children happy by not having to lean on them all the time then I’m happy,” said Main.

For more information about the “Silver Sneakers” classes, you can email deanaandmabel@gmail.com.

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