Exceptional Exercise Capacity in an 80-Year-Old Breast Cancer Survivor and Long-Term Sprint Athlete

Several measures of health and function determine future outcomes in older adults. Maximal oxygen (O2) uptake (VO2max), reflecting the upper limits ofaerobic function, characterizes the integration of the central nervous, cardiopulmonary, and metabolic systems. Although health and function decline gradually with age, little is known regarding VO2 max, cardiorespiratory reserve, body composition, and psychological profile in relationship to lifelong physical activity patterns. Nevertheless, older adults can significantly improve physical function with a healthy lifestyle. The characteristics of a well-educated 80-year-old female world master sprint athlete with a history of breast cancer and lifelong physically active lifestyle are reported.