Laker Nation News

Lake Land College student Dorothy Stuttle, who recently celebrated her 90^th birthday on Nov. 30, doesn’t need a New Year’s resolution to exercise more—she’s been living out that goal at the Lake Land Fitness Center for the past eight years and she plans to keep going.

To celebrate her dedication to physical wellness, Lake Land recently honored Stuttle with a lifetime membership to the Fitness Center. Lake Land staff presented Stuttle with the membership along with wishing her a happy birthday.

Over the years, Stuttle took advantage of the senior citizens tuition wavier to enroll in fitness courses every semester. Now, she can visit the Fitness Center freely.

“It just means so much to me that they would do something like that,” she said. “I’m a strong believer in exercise and doing the right thing. I always try to do the best I can.”

Stuttle began working out at the Fitness Center after she decided that she needed to look into different options for her exercise routine.

“I used to walk around Lake Paradise every morning, but the ground proved too hard on my knees. I looked in to the fitness center and it seemed like a good idea,” she said. “So many people retire and all they want to do is sit. I never wanted to do that. I want to stay active.”

Stuttle goes to the Fitness Center every day at 7 a.m. and peddles on one of the many recumbent exercise bikes. Through the years, Stuttle has become a familiar face to all the staff and students and serves as an inspiration to all who come into contact with her.

“Dorothy is an inspiration to us all,” said Lisa Leisch, administrative assistant to counseling services. “Her story should be an encouragement to everyone in the community to get out there and take care of their physical wellbeing.”

Stuttle enjoys watching the wildlife around her house, especially all the birds and deer that come up to her backyard. She also enjoys spending time with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. “I try to be a great mom, grandma, and great-grandma. I love the little ones,” she said.

When asked about tips on diet, Stuttle stressed moderation. “I eat anything I want, I just try to watch the quantity. I still enjoy a bowl of ice cream before bed every now and then, though.”

The general public can sign up for a one credit hour aerobics class (PED 143) at the college and utilize the center. The center is open Monday—Thursday from 7 a.m.-7 p.m. and on Friday from 7 a.m.- 5 p.m.