In a world where appearances often deceive, these three extraordinary women have captivated onlookers with their striking resemblance. “Shocked” doesn’t even begin to describe the reactions when people discover that they don’t just belong to three different generations but are not sisters at all.
Lesley Maxwell, a 65-year-old fitness enthusiast and bodybuilder from Melbourne, Australia, has become a sensation along with her daughter, Vanessa Christofi, and granddaughter, Tia Christofi.
The remarkable trio not only shares a close bond as a family but also shares clothes, often leaving strangers astounded at their striking resemblance and the significant age differences between them.
Defying Age, Turning Heads
Lesley, with her toned physique and youthful appearance, credits her dedication to fitness for her age-defying looks. She is not your typical grandmother; the senior woman defies stereotypes by engaging in intense workouts, including deadlifts and chin-ups—activities usually associated with much younger individuals.
“They’re shocked to find out that I have grandchildren because I guess it is a little out of the ordinary to think that a grandmother is doing [deadlifts] and chin-ups in the gym,” she says.
In numerous online photos, distinguishing the three women is a challenge, thanks to their impressive fitness regimen that includes anti-aging workouts.
The Australian grandma passionately advocates for weight training, emphasizing its myriad of benefits for women of all ages. As a fitness trainer, she not only practices what she preaches but also encourages her clients to embrace weightlifting to strengthen bones and sculpt their bodies.
“I’d recommend weight training to women of all ages, as there are so many health benefits to training this way. It strengthens our bones and helps us tone our body by adding muscle. I’d love to see more women of all ages lifting weights. It’s the anti-aging way to train,” explained Lesley.
The older woman’s commitment to fitness is evident in her rigorous routine, which includes four weight-training sessions per week. Additionally, her role as a trainer keeps her actively involved in the gym, often assisting her clients and lifting weights herself.
Women Who Train Together, Stay Together
When Lesley, Vanessa, and Tia work out together, they form a unique and inspiring multigenerational fitness team. Despite the apparent generational gaps, their shared love for fitness serves as a powerful binding force.
Together, they enjoy not only the physical benefits of exercise but also the joy of spending quality time together, sharing laughter and meaningful conversations. Their shared fitness sessions have become opportunities for strengthening their family ties while promoting a healthy lifestyle.
In addition to their gym sessions, the trio often collaborates on creative ventures, participating in photoshoots where they ingeniously coordinate their outfits. Vanessa and Lesley frequently borrow clothes from 22-year-old Tia, showcasing a blend of fashion and fitness that transcends generations.
“I’m also very lucky that I get to share clothes with my daughter and granddaughter. When we do shoots together, most of the clothes come from Tia’s wardrobe,” expressed Lesley.
Tia, a social media maven running her own marketing agency, has taken to platforms like TikTok to showcase her grandmother and her fitness journey. Their joint workout videos, featuring impressive weightlifting routines and coordinated attire, have captured the attention of hundreds of thousands of viewers, making them virtual fitness influencers.
Whenever Tia is spotted with her grandmother, people can’t help but think that she’s actually her mom. “They’re taken aback when I correct them and tell them she is my grandmother,” said Tia of her grandma, Lesley. The young woman finds inspiration in the time spent with her mom and grandma, channeling their shared energy into her online presence and fitness routines.
In numerous online photos, distinguishing the three women is a challenge, thanks to their impressive fitness regimen that includes anti-aging workouts. A particular image, circulating on social media since early October 2023, showcases the trio wearing athletic attire. To clarify their positions, Lesley is positioned on the far left, accompanied by her daughter Vanessa in the middle and her granddaughter Tia on the right.
Tia has featured her grandmother prominently in many of her videos. “I film my grandmother and I working out, and people love to see it. She’s 43 years my senior, and we both lift weights and follow the same workout routine while dressed in similar apparel,” explained Tia.
One of their videos garnered immense popularity and became a viral sensation. Since then, Tia has amassed a substantial following on TikTok. Together, they plan to further strengthen their relationship by continuing their joint fitness journey in the gym.
What are your thoughts on this story? If you enjoyed reading it, here’s another one you might like about 20 seniors who have proven that age is no barrier.