Every weekday for the past 30 years, Barbara Martinez has helped hundreds of seniors stay fit. She holds energetic classes on a popular beach in Barcelona. And she’s 88 years old.
She does it for free. Her only stipulation is that all participants must wear brightly colored clothing.
Martinez began her career as a fitness instructor after early retirement at the age of 60. At first, in her spare time, she would ride her bike and take long walks on the beach. During one of these walks, she joined a group of older women who were exercising. Soon she decided to take the initiative.
Barbara Martinez, instructor:
“When I see the happy faces of women exercising, I get goosebumps running down my body. I think, ‘This is the best thing I can do.’”
Attendees say they now can’t imagine their lives without such outdoor activities.
Barbara calls her group “The Golden Girls.” But it’s not uncommon for men to join in as well.
