'I'm 79 and work out 11 times a week - I've followed the same routine for decades'

Solen Le Net

By Solen Le Net


Published: 12/12/2025

- 13:00

The septuagenarian was embracing science-backed longevity habits before they became trendy

What you eat and how much you move your body are paramount in promoting a long life; the evidence is overwhelmingly clear on that.

In fact, 79-year-old Anne Thibodeaux is living proof that you don't need to put in gurelling effort to crack the code on healthy living.


The 79-year-old grandmother from New Orleans, United States, has been following science-backed longevity habits for decades – long before they became trendy.

Her daily routine aligns almost perfectly with the advice in "Outlive," a popular longevity handbook by Dr Peter Attia, an anti-ageing specialist who's become a favourite among tech CEOs and Hollywood stars.

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Anne says she's been following the same routine for decades

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Thibodeaux told Business Insider that Attia's advice for a long life matches what she's been doing for decades already.

The hefty fitness regime comprises 11 workouts a week on average, made up of two daily workouts, mixing with yoga, dance, strength training, and stability exercises.

She also takes part in virtual classes through SilverSneakers, an exercise programme designed for adults aged 65 and over. This includes core work and balance moves, plus dumbbell exercises for building strength.

Dancing is another core element of Anne's routine, both in her classes and when she's out on the town.

Having spent her career as a teacher, Thibodeaux has always maintained an unwavering passion for learning new things.

These days, she channels that curiosity into trying different types of exercise, determined not to fall into the trap that catches many people her age.

"A lot of people my age sit all day. And that's not healthy," she said.

Her typical day might include pottering about in her garden, strolling through the park, or exploring local landmarks. All that activity adds up on her FitBit, which regularly counts more than 10,000 steps daily.

"We have a beautiful sculpture garden right by our museum, so I like to get out and get some of that vitamin D," she said.

She also reveleaed once logging 22,315 steps at her granddaughter's wedding, noting: "I never left the dance floor. I was determined I was going to enjoy that wedding, and I did."


Anne has put equal emphasis on maintainin a healthy social life, as she regularly meets up with friends for shopping trips or cinema outings.

She makes it a point to stay connected with the people in her life every single day.

"It's important to check on your family and friends, make sure they're doing OK, because sometimes you have no idea what challenges some people are dealing with," she said.

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The benefits of regular exercise cannot be overstated

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Research shows that strong community ties are a hallmark of the world's longest-living populations, and good relationships are essential for healthy ageing. Gratitude plays an equally important role in Anne's outlook.

"I'm a person of simple pleasures," Thibodeaux said. "I think it's important to be grateful for the blessings you have."