When most people imagine a centenarian’s routine, they might picture long naps, quiet days, and careful pacing. But for Mary Coroneos, who turned 100 in June, life is still full of movement, curiosity, and even a little flirting. From hitting the gym to indulging in root beer floats, she says the key to a long life isn’t about strict rules, it’s about balance.Coroneos and her daughter, Athena, shared insights into her remarkable journey and the habits that keep her thriving.
Staying active has always been her way of life
Growing up in a coal mining town in Pennsylvania, Coroneos was constantly on the move. “We were always doing things, hiking up in the woods, finding old artifacts,” she recalled. She made games out of chores, competed with her siblings, and excelled in school sports like basketball and volleyball.
Her daughter, Athena, told Business Insider that her mother carried that same energy into adulthood, balancing a long career in education with side jobs and continuing to work into her 90s. “There’s something about it that gives you vitality. It gives you a more youthful perspective,” Athena said.
Fitness and moderation keep her strong
Even at 100, Coroneos works out with trainers, lifting light weights, using resistance bands, and even pushing weighted sleds. “She wants to be pushed. She needs the challenge,” Athena said.
A broken arm didn’t keep her away for long, she was back at the gym just three weeks later. As she put it: “It works very well. When I don’t fall, I’m OK.”Her meals are simple but satisfying. Breakfast is usually two eggs with butter and tea with honey, lunch is chicken vegetable soup, and dinner is “whatever Athena makes.” For dessert, she still enjoys ice cream and root beer floats. “I’m not overeating, and I’m not drinking alcohol,” Coroneos explained.
Curiosity and community give her purpose
Coroneos keeps her mind sharp by reading newspapers daily and staying engaged with new ideas. Athena believes this mindset has kept her mother flexible and open to change. “I think if you have a curiosity about life and learning, it makes you less rigid. There’s a flexibility that you need for a long life,” she said.
Her social life is just as vibrant, she enjoys gym outings, her faith, and even a little flirting. “She’s a notorious flirt. She may be 100, but she’s not blind,” Athena joked.Coroneos’s former students remain close, with many attending her milestone birthday party. Reflecting on her long life, Athena added: “If you can broaden your perspective through friendship, through learning new things, you can enjoy life and have a purpose to go on. And it’s never too late to pursue.”