A pensioner who was taking medication to help with high blood pressure, high cholesterol and acid reflux decided to hit the gym and get healthier.
Retired Joan MacDonald, from Ontario, Canada, used to rely on food to escape difficulties in her marriage.
But with her health concerns, which include progressive arthritis, the 73-year-old wanted to turn her life around.
Soon, Joan began working out at the gym four times a week and completely changed her diet.
With the help of her daughter and son-in-law who coached her, Joan’s lost four stone in seven months.
Joan is now no longer on any medications as her health has vastly improved and she is able to hip thrust over 90kg.
To help document her journey, Joan’s daughter also set up an Instagram account for her to post regular updates.
‘I could barely walk up and down the stairs and I hadn’t even been to the gym in several months because my knee that I had replaced was really hurting me,’ explained Joan.
‘I started out pretty overwhelmed as it was all online, and I had to get an iPhone and learn all about apps. I was in tears at times, ready to throw in the towel, but luckily, I was too darn stubborn.
‘What really helped me was that this time I was okay to go slowly, and just take my time.
‘This fitness journey will undoubtedly improve my quality of life as I move deeper into old age. I’m very grateful for that.’
Joan’s diet prior to the fitness journey included two slices of toast with jam and coffee for breakfast, a sandwich and fruit salad for lunch, meat and vegetables and dessert for dinner.
She would also snack on sweets, chocolates or nuts.
Now she sticks to a healthier meal plan; egg whites, cheese, meat, vegetables and bread or half a bagel for breakfast, coconut milk, protein powder, fruit and ice blended for a smoothie for lunch and for dinner she now has meat, vegetables, and a salad.
She now says that her new look has prompted attention from younger men who give her compliments that have boosted her self-confidence. Her husband has also noticed a change in her.
‘It has changed the way I feel about myself; people at my gym would approach me and compliment me on the changes they saw in me,’ she added.
She is also determined to keep the weight off and has words of advice for those looking to transform themselves too.
‘For those who truly feel at a loss, I’d say change one thing with your food intake and one exercise to do and each week add something new.
‘Don’t expect miracles right away, take it slow and steady but keep building.
‘For those who prefer a challenge, go to a gym and if possible get yourself a legitimate trainer, someone who can help with food as well and you will achieve results faster.’
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