At 92, she’s as fit as someone half her age

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Democracy Dies in Darkness

Fitness

What science is learning from the muscles of Emma Mazzenga, the fastest female nonagenarian on Earth and holder of multiple sprinting world records.

June 10, 2026 at 5:00 a.m. EDTYesterday at 5:00 a.m. EDT

Emma Maria Mazzenga, 5’1” and 128 pounds, typically trains about three times a week. (Claudia Gori/For The Washington Post)

Want a long and healthy life? Then you might want to follow the example of Italy’s Emma Maria Mazzenga.

But following her won’t be easy.

What readers are saying

The comments discuss the influence of genetics, lifestyle, and exercise on aging and fitness, with many noting that exceptional cases like Emma's are often due to genetic advantages. Some commenters express admiration and inspiration from her achievements, while others emphasize... Show more

This summary is AI-generated. AI can make mistakes and this summary is not a replacement for reading the comments.

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