Vera Langston is 89 and ‘fit as a fiddle’

What started seven years ago as physical therapy for a new knee has turned into a love of physical fitness for 89 year-old Vera Langston.

Twice a week, the spry Fayetteville resident hops a ride with her friend, and heads over to the Piedmont Fayette Rehab & Fitness Center, in Fayetteville.

Originally from Port Smith, Virginia, Langston worked as a secretary for 30 years for the same man and “quit” when she was 80 years old.

For years, Langston’s daughter, Janet Purcell, had been “begging” her to move to the area. Eight years ago, Langston made the move and couldn’t be happier.

Read on to learn more about this inspiring woman who relishes all kinds of new experiences.

FW: Was it difficult to leave Virginia after all those years?

Vera: It really wasn’t a hard move. I wasn’t sad about leaving. I was just looking forward to a new adventure. I could have worked more but I thought it was the right time to come. I love the people here, and the community. I’m a Christian, so I joined Fayetteville First United Methodist Church and got involved.

FW: Did you exercise in your earlier years?

Vera: As a secretary I sat most of the time. Exercise just wasn’t part of my life until someone made me, and it turned out to be a good thing.

FW: You had knee surgery seven years ago. How did you injure it?

Vera: Just due to old age.

FW: When the doctor said you’d need physical therapy after the surgery, what was your reaction?

Vera: I said ‘Good. Give it to me.’ I didn’t know how much I was looking forward to it until I started. I didn’t know how nice it would be or how I would do.

FW: Do you remember your thoughts the first time you went to the gym?

Vera: When I saw all that batch of equipment I thought, ‘Will I ever accomplish this?’ But they are very well prepared to take care of you. It’s nice, new and clean. And the first time didn’t bother me a bit. I still marvel at the exercises I do.

FW: Was it hard to go back after the first time?

Vera: No. It was never hard. It’s been a gradual thing -getting used to the exercise.

FW: How long did it take for you to enjoy going?

Vera: I guess I gradually worked up to it. It just got better and better. I got to know the people who were exercising, and the people that worked there. Everybody is helpful. Now I go every Tuesday and Thursday. And first I get on the machine that moves my legs around, and then walk four times around the gym. Then I use rubber bands to help me exercise.

FW: Is there anybody that inspires you to work harder?

Vera: My physical therapist (actually an exercise physiologist), Shawn Thomas, inspires me. She is with me during the exercises.

FW: Do you feel different now that you’ve been working out?

Vera: I just feel better as time goes by. I feel like my body to a certain degree is better than it was before. It amazes me that my arms, legs, or even my tummy doesn’t hurt when I’m done. I just come away feeling so happy and I always come out smiling.

FW: Do you have advice for anyone who is up in age considering joining a gym?

Vera: All I can say is go try it, and I’d be much surprised if you didn’t like it.

FW: What’s the most enjoyable part of exercising for you?

Vera: It’s really about the exercise and the people who make it fun. I’ve even brought a newcomer and she loves it too!