Super gran Jean is in the shape of her life
84-year-old hits the gym three times a week
Sprightly Jean Whelan has become a legend at the Paisley gym where she trains three times a week – at the age of 84.
Energetic great-gran Jean could put many men and women half her age to shame with a workout that includes tackling a full circuit.
She defies the stereotype of the old age pensioner with her attitude and determination to stay forever young, fit and healthy.
Every Monday, Thursday and Friday she laces up her trainers and heads to Pro-Life Fitness Centre, in Paisley, where she is put through her paces under the watchful eye of her champion bodybuilding son Alex – who is 62.
And she doesn’t expect - or want - to get off lightly as she works on her back, arms and chest one day and legs and shoulders the next.
Jean, who lives in a flat in the South End of Paisley, said: “The gym isn’t just for the young ones. “It’s for people of all ages. “Look at me. I’m loving it. I can’t wait to get my trainers on and head down there.
“I’m sure when some of my neighbours see me heading off with my kit they think I’m nuts but I feel good.
“I enjoy pushing myself and achieving what I can to the best of my abilities.
“I was diagnosed with arthritis in my back years ago and used to think I would end up in wheelchair one day but the exercises have helped with the pain and my back is improving.
Her workout is a rigorous routine but it puts a smile on her face because it’s helping her cope with life without her husband of 60 years and the loneliness that can bring – even if you have a loving caring family around you.
“It’s not only the physical benefits of training I enjoy it’s the mental health advantages too.
“I lost my husband two years ago and it was awful. “I missed him so much. “I would be sitting there thinking Alex Snr should be here with me and despite all the care and attention in the world from my family I felt lonely.
“I was sad and could easily have just hidden away. “I’m glad I didn’t. “The gym has helped me so much.
“It keeps me fit, the staff and members are like one big family.
“I feel like the Queen some days as so many people wave to me and I wave back.
“My message to anyone out there hesitating about coming along to the gym for whatever reason – whether it’s confidence, age, weight issues, lack of fitness or ability - is forget all of that. “Just take that first step.” Her son Alex opened his first gym in Espedair Street, 28 years ago, and gave over the running of ProLife Fitness Centre to Renfrewshire Sports Charity.
He still volunteers there, helping people of all abilities achieve their goals.
The seven- times Scottish Body Building Champion and British Masters Body Building Champion, said: “My mum works on 14 different machines using a programme specially developed for her.
“It’s something our trained staff do for anyone here.
“In her case, and at her age, it is all about preventive maintenance using weight res i s t a n c e equipment.
“She’s incredibly fit, has a smile on her face and has become a star at the gym. “She really is an inspiration. “Our doors are open to everyoneno matter age or ability- and we will give expert guidance to anyone who wants to come along and see what we’re all about.
“There’s no pressure to be the best, to work at a certain pace, outdo anyone else.
“We’re here for everyone and I’m just lucky my mum is such an inspiration to everyone who walks through the doors of the centre.”
Pro- Life, based in New Sneddon Street, is offering a free day pass to any senior who would like to take that first move to a fitter, healthier, happier lifestyle.
Just call 0141 889 5027 to organise.