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'I'm 79 and stronger than ever after daughter's 8-word sentence changed my life'
Daily mirror | January 18, 2026 10:40 PM CST

A 79-year-old revealed how just one conversation with her daughter changed her entire world and kickstarted her weight loss journey. Joan MacDonald is a true inspiration after starting her transformation at the age of 70.

Now 9 years later, she's almost unrecognisable to the woman she once was. She's been lifting weights, appearing on Women's Health covers and growing her fitness empire, @trainwithjoan, where she boasts 2.1million followers on Instagram. But before her new lease of life, it was actually her daughter Michelle who first encouraged her to begin her journey – and now she's the strongest she's ever been as she nears her 80s.

In one post on Instagram, it shows Joan perfecting the 'bridge' stretch as the words above read: "But... you're almost 80."

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The mum appears to flaunt her flexibility with huge smile on her face. Her caption read: "'But... you're almost 80'.

"Yes. And this is exactly the way I like it. Strong. Playful. Moving my body because it brings me joy, not because of my age, but in spite of what people think it should limit.

"I don't work out to look younger. I move so I can live fuller. So I can laugh, dance, bend, smile... and feel good in my body.

"If you've been waiting for permission to keep showing up... this is it. Keep moving. Keep choosing yourself."

In previous interviews, Joan recalled how her daughter's 8-word sentence changed her entire world as Michelle told her: "Mum, why don't you go to the gym?"

The mum-of-three, from Canada, was battling high blood pressure and kidney problems prior to this very moment.

And when she was approaching her 71st birthday, she felt "scared and miserable". She already had warnings from doctors to improve her health, but it was a moment with her daughter which truly changed her outlook on life.

Now 9 years on, Joan trains with her daughter Michelle, a certified strength and conditioning specialist and sports nutrition coach.

She began by studying YouTube videos to learn how to use machines at the gym, then turned to strength training with free weights. Eventually, Joan increased the amount she could lift and now she's stronger than ever.

She uses her Instagram platform to inspire many women who struggle to start their fitness journey. Now Joan is turning 80 this year and is certainly pushing her limits.

The mum loves a good strength workout, lifting weights and proving that age is just a number. You can follow Joan on Instagram to feel inspired.


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