Savigny-le-Temple, France – In a surprising turn of events, residents at the Aquarelia senior living facility in Seine-et-Marne are trading in their knitting needles and tarot cards for gloves and mouthguards. A novel mixed martial arts (MMA) program is gaining popularity among the facility’s residents, offering a unique form of exercise and a chance to challenge themselves physically and mentally. The program, led by sports educator Gérald Barquero, is proving to be a hit with seniors looking for a novel way to stay active and engaged.
Hadjia, Elisabeth, Claude and Simonne, ranging in age from 64 to 84, are among the first to embrace this unconventional activity. According to reports, the participants are finding a sense of empowerment and enjoyment in the rigorous training sessions. The program isn’t about preparing for competition; it’s about physical and mental well-being, offering a “moment of release and a lot of fun,” as described in Le Parisien. For these seniors, it’s about putting “a good direct to old age,” as one participant reportedly put it.
Aquarelia, which opened in July 2024, is a relatively new residence service for seniors, offering independent living with a range of amenities and activities. The introduction of MMA is part of an effort to provide residents with diverse and engaging options to maintain an active lifestyle. The facility aims to move beyond traditional senior activities, offering something that caters to a desire for action and challenge.
While MMA has a reputation for being a violent sport, Barquero emphasizes the program’s focus on controlled movements, technique, and safety. The training is adapted to the physical capabilities of the participants, prioritizing proper form and minimizing risk of injury. The goal is to provide a challenging workout that improves strength, balance, and coordination, while also fostering a sense of camaraderie among the residents.
The popularity of MMA has surged in recent years, attracting a younger demographic seeking physical and mental discipline. Bringing this sport to a senior living facility represents a unique and forward-thinking approach to senior wellness. It challenges the stereotype of seniors as being solely focused on passive leisure activities and demonstrates a commitment to providing opportunities for active and fulfilling lives.
Interestingly, the name Patricia Hadjia appears in unrelated news reports from March 21, 2026, involving an incident in Sydney, Australia. Still, this appears to be a different individual than the Hadjia participating in the MMA program in France, and there is no indication of any connection between the two events. It’s important to note this distinction to avoid confusion.
The Aquarelia residence, located in Savigny-le-Temple, is part of a growing trend of senior living facilities offering innovative programs to enhance the quality of life for their residents. By embracing activities like MMA, these facilities are demonstrating a commitment to promoting holistic well-being and challenging conventional notions of aging.
The success of the MMA program at Aquarelia could inspire other senior living facilities to explore similar initiatives. As the population ages, there is a growing need for innovative and engaging activities that promote physical and mental health. This program offers a compelling example of how to meet that need in a creative and unexpected way.
The residents of Aquarelia are proving that age is just a number, and that it’s never too late to try something new and challenging. Their enthusiasm for MMA is a testament to the power of physical activity and the importance of maintaining an active lifestyle, regardless of age. The program is scheduled to continue, offering ongoing opportunities for residents to experience the benefits of this unique form of exercise.
What’s next for the Aquarelia residents? The MMA program will continue with scheduled sessions throughout the spring and summer, with plans to potentially expand the program based on resident feedback and participation. The facility is also exploring other innovative fitness options to further enhance the well-being of its residents.
Have you ever considered unconventional fitness activities for seniors? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
