Coroneos maintains a busy schedule. By mid-afternoon, she has already read two newspapers, worked out at the gym, and visited the beach. This routine has been a part of her life for many years, according to Business Insider.
In June, Coroneos celebrated her 100th birthday in Norwalk, Connecticut, where she lives with her daughter. "My mother is energetic, active, and resourceful," says her 65-year-old daughter, Athena.
For Coroneos, an active lifestyle is key. She had a lively childhood growing up in a coal-mining town in western Pennsylvania. Her family wasn't wealthy, but this allowed her the freedom to play and help her mother with chores. In her free time, Coroneos and her four siblings explored their surroundings.
"We were always active, climbing hills in the woods or searching for antiques," she recalls.
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Coroneos was a teacher. Photo: Mary Coroneos |
Coroneos was a teacher. Photo: Mary Coroneos
In high school, Coroneos was a key member of the basketball and volleyball teams. She graduated from college at 21, later earned a master's degree in education, and taught until she was 70, even working at a store to support her family. Even after retiring, she continued teaching into her 90s.
She regularly visits the gym, working with a personal trainer on strength-training exercises using light dumbbells, resistance bands, and weight machines. She does cardio on a stationary bike and incorporates some HIIT (high-intensity interval training) movements like weighted sled pushes.
"My mother likes to be pushed. She needs a challenge," her daughter says.
Even injuries can't keep her down for long. About three weeks after breaking two bones in her arm last summer, Coroneos was back in the gym, eager to resume the workouts that make her feel energized and healthy.
"The exercise is very effective," she says. "As long as I don't fall, I'm fine."
A major study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine (BJSM) analyzed data from nearly 100,000 adults and found that those who did strength training one to two times a week had a 14% lower risk of death from all causes. When combined with aerobic (cardio) exercise, this risk decreased to 47%. Studies in The Journals of Gerontology show that HIIT workouts help older adults improve strength, power (the ability to generate force quickly), and cardiovascular endurance in a shorter amount of time compared to longer, moderate-intensity exercises.
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Coroneos does strength-training exercises with weight machines, resistance bands, and light dumbbells under the guidance of a trainer. Photo: Mary Coroneos |
Coroneos does strength-training exercises with weight machines, resistance bands, and light dumbbells under the guidance of a trainer. Photo: Mary Coroneos
Regarding nutrition, Coroneos's secret is simplicity and consistency. She "doesn't overeat and doesn't drink alcohol." A typical day includes: breakfast with two avocado eggs and honey tea; a light lunch of chicken vegetable soup; and dinner prepared by Athena.
"Athena likes to experiment, so I'm the 'victim' of it," she jokes, adding that she enjoys ice cream and beer for dessert.
In addition to physical well-being, Coroneos keeps her mind sharp by reading newspapers and continuously learning. For her, the gym is not just a place to exercise but also a social hub. There, she meets friends and enjoys conversations. "My mother is known for being a flirt. Even at 100, she still has a keen eye," Athena reveals, mentioning her mother's interest in single men in their 80s.
Faith is also an important part of Coroneos's life. "I always remember that a 'higher power' is in charge, and that helps me behave better," she shares.
During her teaching years, Coroneos built strong friendships with her students. Many of them from around the world came to celebrate her 100th birthday.
Binh Minh (Business Insider)
