‘Such an inspiration’: Melton 91-year-old great granny Elsie Humphrey takes up boxing

Melton’s Elsie Humphrey is proof that you are never too old to learn something new, strapping on the gloves and stepping into the boxing ring at age 91. So, how does she do it?

Great granny Elsie Humphrey (91) has taken up boxing at Hitfit. She is pictured with gym founder Lester Ellis. Picture: Ian Currie

Melton’s Elsie Humphrey is proof that you are never too old to learn something new.

At 91, the great grandmother of four has taken up boxing and straps on the gloves twice a week at Darcy Ellis’s Hitfit centre.

The super gran started boxing four months ago when her daughter, Sharon, took her to a Hitfit boxing class.

An avid boxing enthusiast, through her late husband Mo’s love of the sport, she was impressed by the fun everyone was having and wanted to give it a go.

“I just wanted to see what all the fuss was about,’’ Humphrey said.

“I don’t drink, I don’t smoke. My great grandchildren and now boxing keep me young, I love it.’’

The Hitfit team modified a 40-minute boxing session for Humphrey and when she gets tired, she nurses the babies for the mums who are also doing the class.

Elsie Humphrey’s favourite boxer is Lester Ellis. Lester's son Darcy is the founder of her gym. Picture: Ian Currie

Hitfit was established by Ellis, son of five-time world boxing champion Lester Ellis — who gave Humphrey a few tips when the Sunday Herald Sun visited.

“I have been watching her having a bit of a punch,” Lester said.

“I think she’s fantastic and such an inspiration. It just goes to show you, you can do anything if you put your mind to it, I just love how Elsie is willing to have a go.”

Hitfit classes consist of traditional boxing and body weight exercises designed for a full body workout. There are classes for beginners right through to those who want to take their boxing further. There are now three Hitfit centres in Melbourne’s west.