"You deserve to feel good!"

As a fitness icon for 40+ years, Denise Austin, 66, has given millions of pep talks through the TV screen, helping women feel their best. But behind the success and smiles, this guru has needed her own share of pick-me-ups, especially after losing her biggest fan-her mother, Rita. Here, Denise reveals how she infuses joy and gratitude into each day, just like Mom taught her

- Lisa Maxbauer

Like us, you can probably hear the unmistakable voice of fitness pro Denise Austin in your head, sharing her genuine brand of positivity. For decades, while toning our muscles, Denise has strengthened our confidence, telling us, “The best time of your life is just around the corner!”

And for Denise, it’s true: The best times are happening now, in a full-circle moment! Celebrating her 40th wedding anniversary, she’s also looking forward to another wedding— her daughter Katie’s. “I feel very emotional,” Denise tells Woman’s World of watching history repeat itself as her two girls build their own wellness careers. “It warms my heart to know they’d follow in my footsteps.”

Of course, the circle of life comes with challenges too. Like how Denise had to call the Today show 35 times to convince them to put her on the air. Or how she had to reinvent herself when her world of VHS tapes and DVDs turned into Instagram and TikTok. But nothing prepared Denise for the heartbreak of losing her mom in 2000. “That was the hardest time in my life,” she says. “I still cry—I’m not over it still. I don’t think you ever get over that.”

Through it all, Denise has viewed her mom as an angel, helping her stay positive. “She taught me, ‘There’s always a rainbow on the other side.’” With that inner strength, Denise has never wavered on her mission to help women feel good about themselves. “I’m devoting all my energies toward that. And 66 is so young, I love what I do—it’s a beautiful time in my life!” Here, how Denise squeezes joy out of every precious moment.