This 91-year-old from Alabama is the fitness inspiration we need
Lloyd Black, a 91-year-old retired teacher, is getting snaps online after being named Anytime Fitness' Member of the Month at his Alabama gym.
Black, who became a member at Anytime Fitness in Semmes, Alabama, last year at age 90, was featured as the club's Member of the Month for January.
Ashley Seaman, the gym's general manager, congratulated Black in a Facebook post that went viral, garnering over 3,500 likes and counting.
"We have seen nothing but motivation and inspiration from him since he started," Seaman wrote in the now-viral post along with a photo of Black wearing his signature workout attire, overalls. "He says he is 91 years young and brags about how much his workout routine has helped him in his daily routines. Seeing someone like him inspires others to keep it up and incorporate fitness into their life. Seeing him in the gym 3 times a week working out in his overalls brightens our day."
Black told "GMA" he tries to get to the gym every other day, making the trip at least three times a week. He said he was motivated to start working out to keep up with his lifestyle.
"I had reached the point where simple chores, like yard work, I could no longer do and therefore I started [going to the gym] and it has really helped," said Black. "I am also motivated by my daddy. He was a man who never gave up and so I hope I've inherited some of his traits."
Black said his typical gym routine consists of the treadmill, upper body strength training and the leg press.
"[Black] started out with 10 minutes on the treadmill. Now, he would brag to me about how he has worked his way up to 30 minutes," Seaman told "GMA."
Something else that makes him stand-out at the gym is his overalls.
Black praised their practicality: "They're comfortable and it's what I have."
According to Seaman, Black has become a valued member of the gym through his dedication to improving his personal fitness, his helpfulness and his genuine warmth toward other members.
"[Black] is just the most friendly soul I've ever met. He just radiates energy and positivity," Seaman told "GMA." "We have a really good friendship."
While Black is not currently a member of Facebook to see the reaction to the post, he has received local attention for his fitness journey.
"I don't feel very comfortable being in the limelight, but if it encourages someone else than I'm willing to do it," Black said.
"You have to decide for yourself, but do you want to be a happy person or a grouch? And I've decided to be a happy person," he added. "The good Lord has blessed me with good health."
