Jerry Leo, a 100-year-old woman from Long Island, has set a remarkable example of vitality and fitness, defying the typical boundaries of age. A centenarian with a passion for health and wellness, she recently celebrated her milestone birthday by showcasing an incredible feat—holding a plank for a solid three minutes, surpassing the expectations of much younger individuals.
Her dedication to physical fitness and her positivity serve as an inspiration to all, making her not only a regular at the Bay Shore’s Great South Bay YMCA but also a role model for people of all ages.
In a world where aging often brings a decline in physical capabilities, Jerry’s impressive strength and endurance stand as a testament to the benefits of regular exercise and mental resilience.
Having been a member of the YMCA since 1961, Jerry Leo’s story is more than just about physical fitness; it’s about the power of consistency, community, and the drive to stay active, no matter the age. Her unwavering commitment to staying in shape and her ability to outlast some of her younger counterparts is an inspiring example of living life with purpose and vitality.
The Journey to Centenarian Fitness
Jerry Leo’s fitness journey began long before her 100th birthday. As a young adult, she prioritized staying active and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, which laid the foundation for her longevity.
However, it wasn’t until she joined the Great South Bay YMCA in 1961 that she found a consistent routine that supported both her physical and social well-being. Her involvement at the Y extended beyond fitness classes; it became a second home, a place where she built lasting friendships and found motivation.
Leo’s commitment to her fitness routine, despite the years passing by, has had a significant impact on her physical health. She regularly participates in a variety of exercises, but it’s her passion for planks that has set her apart.
A plank, an exercise that engages the core, shoulders, and back, is challenging for many, but Jerry has mastered it in ways that even young athletes often struggle to replicate.
While others in her class might struggle to hold the position for two minutes, Jerry has no trouble holding the plank for three minutes, an achievement that astonishes both her instructors and fellow participants.
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What sets Jerry apart is not just her physical ability, but her mindset. She has always maintained a positive outlook on life and believes that consistency is key. “Be consistent, be positive, and keep moving in whatever you do,” Jerry advises anyone seeking longevity and vitality.
Please watch this 100-year-old woman absolutely crush a 3-minute plank 👏💪https://t.co/ytSlcvUKoa pic.twitter.com/fNytDTCI5F
— Good Morning America (@GMA) April 19, 2025
These principles, coupled with her commitment to exercise, have allowed Jerry to defy the limitations typically associated with aging. Instead of slowing down, Jerry has continued to push herself further, demonstrating that age is just a number.
The YMCA: A Lifeline for Fitness and Community
The Great South Bay YMCA in Bay Shore, Long Island, has played a crucial role in Jerry Leo’s journey. The YMCA is not just a place for physical fitness; it’s a community hub that brings people together, helping to foster a sense of belonging.
For Jerry, it has become more than a gym—it’s a second family. Having spent over six decades as a member, Jerry credits the Y for keeping her engaged, both physically and socially.
“The socialization is fabulous, which is good for you. I come here and it’s my new family,” she says. At the YMCA, Jerry has found friends and support, which have contributed to her overall happiness and well-being. It’s this sense of community that has helped her remain motivated and dedicated to her fitness routine throughout the years.
Fitness isn’t just about lifting weights or running marathons for Jerry; it’s about maintaining a balanced and healthy lifestyle that includes physical activity, social interaction, and a positive mindset.
For Jerry, the YMCA has provided the perfect environment to nurture these aspects of her life. It’s a place where she can challenge herself, engage with others, and continually set new goals, no matter her age.
The YMCA’s role in fostering community and health has been invaluable to Jerry, and her story serves as a reminder of the importance of staying connected and engaged in a supportive environment. As she celebrates 100 years of life, Jerry’s experience at the YMCA exemplifies the power of consistency, both in exercise and in building meaningful relationships.
Planking and the Power of Consistency
One of the most impressive aspects of Jerry Leo’s fitness routine is her dedication to planking. The plank is a core-strengthening exercise that involves holding a push-up-like position with only the forearms and toes touching the ground.
Despite its simplicity, the plank is one of the most effective exercises for strengthening the abdominal muscles, back, and shoulders. For Jerry, planking has become more than just a physical challenge; it’s a symbol of her commitment to staying fit and strong, no matter her age.
While the typical plank challenge lasts around one to two minutes, Jerry routinely holds the position for three minutes, effortlessly surpassing the expectations of many of her younger peers.
Her instructor, Elizabeth Grant, has praised Jerry’s form, noting that her plank technique is impeccable. “Her form is beautiful and she can teach people how to do it the right way,” said Grant. For Jerry, the plank isn’t just a physical challenge—it’s an opportunity to demonstrate her discipline, perseverance, and mental toughness.
In a world that often associates aging with weakness and decline, Jerry’s ability to maintain such a rigorous exercise routine proves that age is no barrier to strength and vitality.
It’s not just the physical benefits of planking that have kept Jerry committed to the exercise; it’s the sense of accomplishment and confidence that comes with being able to hold the position longer than many younger individuals. Her achievements serve as a powerful reminder that consistency and determination can overcome any obstacle, regardless of age.
The Secret to Longevity: Movement and Positivity
As Jerry celebrates her 100th birthday, she’s not slowing down. Instead, she continues to inspire others with her incredible fitness feats and her infectious positivity. For Jerry, the key to longevity isn’t found in a specific exercise or diet—it’s in staying active, positive, and engaged in life.
“Be consistent, be positive, and keep moving in whatever you do,” she says. These simple yet powerful words capture the essence of Jerry’s approach to life. She believes that staying active, both physically and mentally, is essential to maintaining good health as we age. For Jerry, this means continually challenging herself to improve, whether through planking, socializing with friends, or simply maintaining a positive attitude toward life.
The lessons Jerry imparts aren’t just about fitness; they’re about the importance of staying active in every aspect of life. Consistency in exercise, positivity in thinking, and staying engaged with others are the building blocks of Jerry’s longevity. These principles are not only applicable to aging individuals but to anyone seeking to live a fulfilling and healthy life.
In a world that often focuses on the challenges of aging, Jerry’s story is a beacon of hope and inspiration. It shows that with the right mindset, dedication, and community support, it’s possible to live a long and vibrant life, filled with purpose and strength.
Jerry Leo’s 100th birthday celebration is not just a milestone in her life; it’s a celebration of the power of fitness, consistency, and positivity. Her remarkable ability to hold a plank for three minutes, her ongoing dedication to physical activity, and her positive outlook on life serve as a powerful reminder that age is no barrier to living an active and fulfilling life. Whether in the gym, with friends, or in life, Jerry has proven that staying consistent, positive, and engaged is the key to a long and healthy life.