We all know how challenging it can be to stick with a workout routine and as a result, many end up never achieving their goals. But if a 74-year-old can completely transform her body (not just talking about losing weight), then anyone committed enough can as well.
Joan Macdonald is that 74-year-old who we’re referring to… and she went viral after showing what can be achieved with hard work and consistency. Macdonald decided to set out on a mission three years ago and today, she has garnered quite the following with 800,000 on just Instagram alone, after losing over 65 lbs and building lots of muscle.
Joan Macdonald didn’t accomplish this all on her own though as she’s actually coached by her daughter Michelle Macdonald who clearly knows what she’s doing. Joan even offers valuable training that her daughter/coach taught her which you can see from her Instagram posts.
We shared a message that she posted on social media where she offered some valuable advice for women around her age looking to improve their overall fitness. There were many valid points in there and she even included a clip of her performing the deadlift, an exercise she never thought she’d learn how to do on her own.
Level Up Your Fitness: Join our 💪 strong community in Fitness Volt Newsletter. Get daily inspiration, expert-backed workouts, nutrition tips, the latest in strength sports, and the support you need to reach your goals. Subscribe for free!
“Training with my coach
I thought I’d share with you how my coach actually trains me. 😅
I think a lot of women my age get really pacified at the gym. I see a lot of chit-chat going on in general between trainers and their older female clients, and not much effort. I imagine Trainer’s must think we can’t be pushed and we are there to mark time, and not accomplish much. 🤷🏼♀️.
If I can advise you on one thing: find a trainer who really knows their stuff and can teach you good form and really push you. 🏋🏻♀️ I would NEVER have even thought to learn how to hip thrust or deadlift on my own. I used to just go and sit on the machines and do circuits. But that all changed when I started working with a proper coach. @yourhealthyhedonista just puts me through my paces like a drill sergeant and shows me videos of my form and also does a lot of demonstrations and hands on corrections.
There’s definitely a common misconception that women shouldn’t do certain exercises or lift relatively heavy weights. However, by avoiding efficient, proven movements, you’re shortchanging the potential for progress and gains.
This has really helped me learn how to lift properly. I only get to work with her a few times throughout the year but every time I do I seem to make huge improvements. She always tells me: whether you’re young or old, all bodies respond to the same technique of proper exercise selection, proper volume, and progressive overload (making the workouts harder each week). If you dumb it down just because you’re older you won’t get the results you are looking for. Don’t be taken advantage of my dears. If you really want to make changes, decide to become strong and decide that you’re worth the effort. 🏋🏻♀️”
There’s definitely a common misconception that women shouldn’t do certain exercises or lift relatively heavy weights. However, by avoiding efficient, proven movements, you’re shortchanging the potential for progress and gains.
“I don’t know about you all but I am ITCHING to get back in the gym. I am eagerly watching people in other provinces and states and countries returning to the gym. How exciting!
I can’t wait to start hip thrusting again and getting my pull up strength back.
What about you? When is your gym reopening or are you already back? What do you want to train?
Let’s all make the rest of 2020 something truly amazing. 💪 stay strong, love your neighbour, and work hard for your goals!
With love,
Joan ❤️“
Watch the clip below…
Joan Macdonald has earned every bit of acknowledgment for her accomplishments and she continues to inspire so many people, showing what’s truly possible with hard work, knowledge, and dedication.
Check out those guns!
Repping out some barbell squats!
Here’s a back double biceps shot…
You can also follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and
YouTube for even more content.
How much do you weight today and did you take supplements? IF so, which ones…I have lost 85 lbs. but my stomach is still there. I have been thinking of starting weight training to helps arms, loose skin and stomach. My coach tells me the lower abs are the hardest…what do you say?
I am retired, about to be 64 yrs old, and need/want to get into shape but cant afford to hire a trainer. Where can I get info or books or videos of being trained at home?