Ruth Lemay just turned 100, and instead of slowing down, she’s pedaling forward — literally. Three times a week, she’s at the gym riding a stationary bike for an hour and walking more than a mile on the indoor track. While most people her age are resting in retirement homes, Ruth is thriving in her own house, cooking her meals and embracing life with energy and purpose.
Table of Contents
Routine
Ruth’s secret to longevity? Staying active. She’s been moving her body every day for as long as she can remember. Mornings start with stretches, knee raises, leg kicks, and light weights at home. On gym days, she rides a recumbent bike for 30 minutes, takes a short rest, then gets back on for another 30 minutes. After that, she walks over a mile — and not just to say she did it. She genuinely enjoys it.
Back when she was younger, she walked up to 4 miles a day. Her late husband supported her routine by encouraging her to walk after work while he made dinner. That kind of partnership — and self-discipline — laid the foundation for a lifestyle that has helped Ruth stay mobile and sharp well into her 100s.
Diet
Ruth doesn’t follow any trendy diets. She simply eats clean, balanced meals filled with whole foods. Breakfast might be oatmeal with banana and milk, or a scrambled egg with toast. She loves non-fat yogurt and adds walnuts for a protein boost. Chicken, turkey, and seafood are her go-to proteins — she rarely eats beef or pork.
Her meals include a rainbow of vegetables: string beans, squash, corn, cabbage, pickled beets, tomatoes, onions, and lettuce. Fruit is a daily staple too, especially grapes and blueberries. She grew up in the country, where her father had a thriving vegetable garden, and that early exposure shaped her love for fresh, healthy food.
Salt? She avoids it. Alcohol and cigarettes? She’s never touched them. Even at 100, she still cooks for herself and makes conscious choices to support her heart and overall health.
Treat
But Ruth isn’t all kale and carrots. Every Friday is treat day. After getting her hair done, she stops at her favorite spot and orders the same thing: two chili hot dogs with mustard and extra onions. It’s her little tradition — and a delicious reminder that balance matters more than restriction.
Genes
While genetics often get credit for long life, Ruth doesn’t think they played a major role for her. Her mother passed at 65 from colon cancer. Her father died at 74 due to a heart condition. Ruth has had a heart valve replacement but has avoided most other serious health issues. She attributes her health to movement, diet, and attitude — not her DNA.
Independence
Ruth’s independence is as impressive as her age. She worked for decades at a grocery chain’s corporate office, eventually becoming a credit union manager and analyst. She even went to modeling school — sponsored by her employer — and modeled for in-store promotions.
She’s lived in her own home for 57 years and drove a car until she was 98. Her sharp mind and determination helped her negotiate a higher salary back in the day and maintain full control of her life well into her golden years.
Social Life
Social connection is another piece of Ruth’s longevity puzzle. Her daughter, Annette Parker, 78, lives with her as a caregiver and gym buddy. The two are close and often attend birthday parties, holiday dinners, and gatherings with friends. Weekends are always filled with plans.
Ruth’s vibrant personality draws people in. Neighbors stop to chat when she’s out walking. Conversations may slow down the pace, but they certainly lift the spirit.
Ruth has also become a bit of a social media star. A video of her gym workout posted by the Instagram page evrydayclub has gone viral, racking up nearly 600,000 likes. Her bright pink outfit and energetic routine caught the eye of the page’s creators, who were shocked to learn she was 100.
For them — and for the rest of us — Ruth is a powerful reminder that age doesn’t have to be a barrier. Her life proves that with consistency, a good attitude, and some hot dogs now and then, you can live not just longer, but better.
FAQs
How often does Ruth Lemay go to the gym?
She works out three times a week, biking and walking.
What does Ruth eat for breakfast?
She enjoys oatmeal with banana or eggs with toast.
Has Ruth always been active?
Yes, she has exercised daily since her youth.
Does Ruth still live alone?
Yes, in the same house she’s owned for 57 years.
What’s Ruth’s favorite treat?
Two chili hot dogs every Friday after getting her hair done.
