Diana Pollard: Slowing Down Time, One Step at a Time

“Passions fade with age,” Victor Hugo once wrote. Over a century and a half after his passing, a not-so-scientific study today, in 2017, would suggest that nothing could be further from the truth. Just look at today’s life expectancy: not only do people live longer, but they live better. A small glimpse of that truth is found in a room at the Centre Multisports, where Diana Pollard teaches her power walking classes twice a week.

The class includes various functional exercises to support heart health, back strength and posture, followed by brisk walking sessions on the indoor track just outside the classroom.

“It’s good for your morale, it’s important to stay active, it’s good for your muscles,” says Diana Pollard of her course’s many benefits. “As we age, we lose posture. We need to activate our muscles and keep the engine running. For the gentlemen, I explain it like a car engine.”

Claire, Clive and Diane

Among the participants is 79-year-old Clive Epten from Hudson. He walks every single day, rain or shine, and never misses a Tuesday or Thursday class:

“I’ve always exercised and I like staying in shape,” he says simply.

Diana Pollard began teaching spinning at the YMCA in the early 2000s, but has been physically active her whole life. She shares examples that inspire her—like a 105-year-old woman teaching yoga on Facebook and a man who still runs at the age of 95:

“I really love those kinds of stories,” she says.

Everyone is quick to praise Diana and the energy she brings to every class.

“Sometimes we’re not that motivated, but as soon as we see Diana, our mood lifts,” says Diane, now in her third year in the class. “We have a lot of fun,” adds Claire. “Diana plays music from our era. We laugh—it feels like a game.”

“It’s not hard, but it is demanding. Anyone can come. I talk to people about it. Some say their knees hurt… well, you might as well come! Your knees will hurt either way!”

What resonates most from this conversation is the collective awareness of staying active in order to age well—and maybe slow down time just a little.

“That’s what helps us stay healthy and avoid illness,” Claire adds. “Your body gives you what you give it. If you give it health, it’ll return the favor.”

Beyond the community spirit, beyond the obvious joy these participants feel moving together each Tuesday and Thursday, the group led by Diana Pollard is an inspiring showcase—especially for those, young or old, who resist the need to move.

Mr. Hugo, passions don’t fade with age. They return, stronger and more genuine than ever.