Oprah Winfrey rang in her 72nd birthday on January 29, 2026, with a show of strength, sharing a gym video of herself deadlifting as she reflected on ageing, fitness and feeling healthier than ever.
The beloved TV icon celebrated her milestone by posting a candid workout clip to Instagram, offering fans a glimpse into the strength-training routine she has embraced in recent years.
In the video, Oprah appeared confident and focused as she completed several reps with a weighted barbell, dressed in navy leggings, a long-sleeved blue top and white trainers, with her hair pulled back by a headband. After finishing the set, she laughed as she walked towards the camera and admitted she once had no idea what the exercise even was.
Oprah jokes in the clip, “I didn’t know what a deadlift was. I remember Adele told me she was deadlifting, and I pretended to know what she was talking about.” She then shared a memory from a 2021 interview with Adele, in which the singer explained her lifting routine, prompting a wide-eyed reaction from Oprah at the time.
For the caption, the media legend reflected on how her approach to fitness has evolved with age. She wrote, “Life at 72 is looking different from every other decade. Two summers and two new knees ago, I decided to add strength training to my workouts because we all need to maintain muscle as we get older.”
“I can’t say I’m ready for the Olympics like Adele, but I sure feel stronger. So, in honor of another trip around the sun for me, go try something new. You never know where it will lead you.”
Oprah has been open in recent years about her changing relationship with her body and health, including her decision to use GLP-1 weight-loss medication.
In fact, speaking with People magazine last month, the broadcaster said the experience has been transformative. She said, “I thought it was about discipline and willpower. But I stopped blaming myself. I feel more alive and more vibrant than I’ve ever been.”
She also admitted the shift has brought a new sense of peace. She said, “I’m not constantly punishing myself. I hardly recognise the woman I’ve become. But she’s a happy woman.”