Twenterand centenarian inspires with weekly gym visits at 100
At 100 years old, Riek Smelt-Kwakkel from Twenterand defies expectations by staying active—hitting the gym weekly, cooking daily, and living independently. Her story highlights the benefits of an active lifestyle, even in later years, inspiring others to prioritize health and mobility.
| Key Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Mrs. Riek Smelt-Kwakkel |
| Age | 100 years old |
| Location | Vroomshoop, Twenterand (Overijssel) |
| Weekly Activities | Gym visits, shopping walks, coffee gatherings |
| Past Hobbies | Hiking (until 85), swimming (until 90) |
| Family | 2 sons, 1 daughter, 6 grandchildren, 1 great-grandson (Lucas, age 3) |
| Former Profession | Home care provider, domestic helper |
| Mayor’s Visit | Gerrit Jan Gorter congratulated her on behalf of the municipality |
The municipality of Twenterand plays a role in celebrating local milestones, such as centenarian birthdays, to honor residents and foster community spirit. These visits also highlight the importance of active aging and social engagement in the region.
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100-year-old woman still hits the gym every week
Not everyone makes it to 100. If you do, it’s something truly special. That’s the sentiment in Twenterand, where Mayor Gerrit Jan Gorter paid a visit last Monday to Mrs. Riek Smelt‑Kwakkel. She celebrated her 100th birthday on Sunday, March 15. The mayor warmly congratulated her on behalf of the municipality and enjoyed a pleasant conversation with the sprightly centenarian.
Mrs. Smelt‑Kwakkel is a true local from Vroomshoop. “Born and raised here,” she smiles. “Even my husband moved from Vriezenveen to Vroomshoop back then,” she adds with pride. She lives independently with her son on Churchillstraat. Staying still isn’t an option for her. She still walks to do her shopping, enjoys weekly coffee room gatherings, and even hits the gym once a week. Now that’s setting a great example.
In her working life, Riek made a real difference for others. For years, she worked as a home care provider and later transitioned into a domestic helper. Clearly, caring for others is in her nature. As a centenarian, Riek has witnessed enormous changes. She still remembers when electricity was installed and the first refrigerator arrived—things we now take for granted were groundbreaking back then.
She’s always kept moving too. Up until age 85, she hiked every Saturday in Zandstuvebos, and until 90, she swam five times a week. Cooking is another passion of hers. Every day, she happily prepares something delicious for herself and her son, from Dutch classics to dishes from other cuisines. With her two sons, one daughter, six grandchildren, and great-grandson Lucas (3), she’s part of a family she’s clearly proud of.