A 65-year-old grandmother and personal trainer is proving that age is just a number, sharing the simple fitness regimen that gives her a remarkably toned physique.
The Three Favourite Ab Exercises
Lesley Maxwell, from Melbourne, Australia, took to Instagram to share her top three tips for developing core strength with her 148,000 followers. In a short clip showcasing her impressive figure in gym wear, she outlined her preferred routine.
Her advice blends practical exercise with nutritional wisdom. Firstly, she humourously suggests squatting to reach for "steak and eggs in your fridge," emphasising the importance of diet. Secondly, she advocates for weight training to build calorie-burning muscle mass. Finally, she recommends specific ab work like hanging knee raises and ab bicycle exercises.
"Abs are primarily made in the kitchen," Lesley added, underscoring that nutrition is foundational to her results.
A Defiant Approach to Ageing and Fitness
Lesley, who has openly said her physique helps attract attention from men half her age, maintains that getting older is no barrier to being in peak condition. She attributes her success to daily dedication, heavy lifting, and a unique training system honed over years.
"My routine consists of training my lower body with every workout, so that's four days a week," she explained. Her method involves 'alternating sets', pairing a lower body move with an upper body one for efficiency.
She is a particular advocate for exercises like hanging knee raises, noting she can sometimes perform 50 repetitions. "It's a great stretch for the spine, plus a challenging ab exercise," she said, adding that grip strength from such moves is a key indicator of longevity.
The Diet and Philosophy Behind the Physique
When it comes to food, Lesley describes her diet as 'super clean', a lifestyle choice she finds easy to maintain. She prioritises protein and healthy fats, including saturated fats from sources like whole eggs and steak, and enjoys slow-cooked meals.
She eats five or six times daily but allows for treats, enjoying a couple of squares of organic dark chocolate after meals and even putting butter in her coffee.
Her core message to other women is clear: "I wish more women knew the benefits of lifting a few weights. I'd advise it any day above all other exercises." She insists that building strength through weight training should be the priority, creating a foundation for other sports and genuine health benefits.
The response to her posts has been overwhelmingly positive, with fans praising her as an "incredible athlete" and saying her fitness level is "phenomenal." Lesley Maxwell stands as a powerful example of how commitment to strength and nutrition can redefine what's possible in later life.
