Barre resident takes Pilates in Montpelier at age 88

Sue Talmage, 88, drives from her home in Barre to Montpelier twice a week to attend Pilates classes. She has been a student at Essential Physical Therapy and Pilates for close to two decades and believes she is currently the oldest person in the studio.

The 45-minute session, led by instructor Willow Wonder, involves no breaks. Pilates focuses on repetitive movements designed to build balance, flexibility, and core strength. Research indicates that older adults often lose muscle mass, a condition that can increase the risk of falls and other health complications.

Wonder noted that Talmage’s physical condition stands out among the students. “If you think old people have balance issues, this is not the case,” Wonder said. “I think she’s very unique to have such ability, strength, balance, flexibility, all of the things at that age. I just have not seen much of.”

Wonder described Talmage as a “huge inspiration” to other people who visit the studio. Talmage, however, views her fitness routine as a personal goal rather than a public display of ability. “Eighty-eight is a long time,” Talmage said.

Talmage lives on land in Barre owned with her husband, Bruce, whom she has married for more than 40 years. She walks on that property nearly every day. After her Pilates class, she reports feeling no soreness and returns home to continue her daily walks. “I feel great and I can still do just about everything I want to,” Talmage said.

Talmage said staying active is an important part of her life. She continues to drive the route to Montpelier for her two weekly sessions, maintaining a schedule she has kept for nearly 20 years.