Aerobics instructor Yeom Jeong-in, affectionately known as “Halmae,” showed off her unwavering passion for aerobics in a recent interview with iMBC Entertainment.
Yeom Jeong-in gained national fame in 2008 after appearing on TV “Endless Challenge”where her charismatic teaching style and bold makeup earned her the nickname “Halmae”. In addition to that special episode, he continued to appear on numerous YouTube web shows and variety programs, delighting audiences with his unique charm.
She recently performed at the 20th anniversary event “Run endless challenge with Coupang Play”delivering a lively aerobics display that captivated the audience.
During the interview at his aerobics studio in Seongbuk-gu in Seoul, Yeom Jeong-in spoke enthusiastically with his signature energy. He observed, “I still live by ‘Infinite Challenge.’ Its influence is huge, most people remember me from that show.
Interestingly, Yeom Jeong-in revealed that he considered quitting aerobics before his TV appearance. “When I started shooting, I was over 50. Teaching ordinary people was no problem, I had simply lost interest. Aerobics had become a routine. It wasn’t my livelihood; it was just exercise. But once it became my job, the passion vanished.”
Before her “Endless Challenge” fame, Yeom Jeong-in was more interested in water skiing, horse riding and paragliding. However, filming the show rekindled her love for aerobics. “I design all my choreographies myself. If I don’t have fun or move me, I can’t teach,” he said.
Now in his seventies, Yeom Jeong-in continues to greet every day with energy. “Even now, waking up early and coming to the studio makes my heart beat fast. If my heart doesn’t beat fast, I can’t do anything. I feel like I’m in a time machine 10 years in the future, Yeom Jeong-in at 83, looking back now, still young. This thought gives me energy.”
He also joked about his ultimate goal: “My wish is to die doing aerobics. There is no ‘until’. Until death. I’ve heard of people doing water skiing at 100 years old abroad. I’m ready whenever my time comes, with no regrets.”
Yeom Jeong-in also addressed a message to the younger generations, urging them to prioritize what is essential in life. “There’s a difference between essential and optional. Focus on what you really need and act now. Don’t wait for the easy or fun things. Persistence beats talent. Even someone like me, who started out inexperienced, can turn weaknesses into strengths with dedication.”
Finally, to the question about the meaning of “Endless Challenge”he reflected, “‘Infinite Challenge’ isn’t just a show, it’s a reminder not to live like a frog in a well. Don’t underestimate yourself. Keep challenging yourself.”
Yeom Jeong-in continues to inspire as a living symbol of energy, passion and resilience, proving that age is no barrier to living life to the fullest.
Sources: Daum
