Since moving to Lever Edge Care Home, in Great Lever, resident Valerie Bailey grabbed the attention of staff with her enthusiasm for daily exercise.
Her enthusiasm soon saw her invited to lead an aerobics class for fellow residents, encouraging them to stay active through stretching and resistance training using cans and bands.
It was during one of Val’s daily outings in Great Lever that the care home’s events manager, Manny Patel, decided to capture her energy on camera for the home’s Facebook page.
Lever Edge Care Home resident Val Bailey, 89, with her running medals
In the video, Val demonstrates her technique for power-walking, running and leg-strengthening exercises, while also showing that age is just a number when she rides the seesaw and slide at a nearby park.
The video has so far garnered over 8,100 views, more than 130 reactions and dozens of comments, with one commenter stating: “I hope I’m like that at 89.”
Others called Val an “inspiration”, “an amazing woman”, “a role model for us all”,
“such a happy person”, while another said watching the video made their day.
Val said: “I started running when I was younger because it costs nothing. All you need is a pair of shoes.
“At 89, staying active keeps my enthusiasm alive, because movement is my morning reminder that life is meant to be lived fully.
“I enjoy inspiring others. My active life and enthusiasm shows that it’s never too late to keep moving growing and thriving it’s brings me joy.
“I loved leading the exercise class with Manny because, at my age, staying active is even better when you lift folk up with you. It makes me happy.”
Val trained as an NHS nurse but soon after took her skills abroad, working in South Africa, Saudi Arabia, and France.
She was in the Middle East during the Gulf War and recalled bombs and missiles going off while she helped patients.
She said: “I got into trouble once with the nursing director for going hiking in Riyadh. I was called a “loose cannon”.”
While in the Saudi capital, she also completed the Riyadh 5K – just one of her running accomplishments.
Val also ran the London Marathon, in 1989, as well as another 20-mile race, with shorter runs including the Preston Mini Four-Mile Fun Run, and the Lancaster Race Series Garstang 10K in 1992.
She added: “For me, staying active has always been more than exercise – it’s a way of living. I’m well aware I’m now well old, but you have to make the effort to stay active and engaged.”
Manny said: “At 89 years old, Valerie is a true fitness fanatic, and she certainly gave me a run for my money when we went out for a power walk.
“I asked Val if she’d be happy for me to film her and she was more than happy to share her enthusiasm, proudly instructing on what’s involved in her routine, and setting a lively pace from the beginning.
“She truly enjoyed the morning and said she can’t wait to do it again. Moments like these bring joy, purpose, and vibrant energy to our residents’ days – reminding us how important movement, fun, and connection are at every age.”