At 88, Sue Talmage redefines aging with two decades of Pilates dedication

At 88, Talmage is sure she is the oldest student at Essential Physical Therapy and Pilates - and she has been taking classes there for close to two decades.

"It's an important part of my life," Talmage said.

What is Pilates?

Pilates is a combination of repetitive exercises focused on building balance, flexibility and core strength.

Studies show older adults are prone to losing muscle mass, which can lead to falls and other complications.

Pilates founder Joseph Pilates once said, "We retire too early and we die too young. Our prime of life should be in the 70s and old age should not come until we are almost 100."

Talmage's class runs 45 minutes with no breaks and includes instructor Willow Wonder and two other women, including Vicky Mazur, who is 24 years younger than Talmage.

"I was blown away when I found out how old Sue was," Mazur said. "I said, what?!"

'Huge inspiration'

Wonder said Talmage's physical ability stands out.

"If you think old people have balance issues, this is not the case," Wonder said. "I think she's very unique to have such ability, strength, balance, flexibility - all of the things at that age. I just have not seen much of."

Wonder also said Talmage serves as an inspiration for others who come to the studio.

"Absolutely - huge inspiration to everyone that comes here," Wonder said.

Talmage said she does not see herself that way. For her, staying fit is a personal goal.

"Eighty-eight is a long time," she said.

After class, Talmage said she feels no soreness and returns home to her daily walk.

"I feel great and I can still do just about everything I want to," she said.

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