By Alesha Capone
MY WYNDHAM: Jan Hudson isn’t your average fitness fanatic. The 79-year-old, who lives at Stockland’s Tarneit Skies Retirement Village with her husband, is defying stereotypes and proving age is no barrier to living an active lifestyle. Ms Hudson does weightlifting, boxing and aquarobics up to three times per week.
What was your job before you retired?
I worked as a general medical nurse for 20 years until 1977. I then transferred into midwifery and gynaecology until retiring in 2005.
How long have you lived in Tarneit?
We moved 13 years ago. Before that, we lived in Altona for 42 years.
How has Tarneit changed across the years?
When we moved into the village, there were farms across the road, which have now been replaced with housing. We have two new sporting ovals, tennis courts and a community barbecue area nearby too.
Tarneit has become a very multicultural area too, which makes it an interesting place to live. We now have a direct link to Warrnambool. We think Tarneit is a great place for retirees. It has everything we need without too much hustle and bustle.
Did you exercise much before you moved into the village?
I’ve always been an active person. In our younger years, my husband and I played badminton and squash. Exercising is a great way to have some time to myself to relax and unwind. It keeps me young. I’ll stay active for as long as I’m able.
What is your favourite sport or exercise activity?
I’ve been taking the aquarobics classes in the village’s swimming pool for some time now but have recently started enjoying boxing.
I’ve got a personalised exercise plan to help me build my upper body strength and maintain my hand-eye co-ordination, which includes some weightlifting. I’ve surprised myself with my own ability.
Do you have a favourite place to shop or get a coffee in Wyndham?
We like Pacific Werribee, which used to be the Werribee Plaza. It has a few different supermarkets … and some nice cafes.
