FITNESS OVER 40

​As we age our bodies change due to hormonal shifts, and our metabolism slowing down.  Sometimes we lack the same the energy  and enthusiasm we had when we were younger.  The bodies we had in our twenties no longer resemble the body we inhabit in our forties.  

When we get older, we start to notice that the body isn’t as naturally toned as it used to be.  The skin starts to lose its firmness due to the loss of skin elasticity, and muscle mass begins to wain.  Once we hit the forty plus category, we definitely have to make more of a conscious effort to stay fit.

It takes much longer to build muscle mass in your forties than in your twenties.  But don’t let that discourage you!  Keeping fit has a lot more benefits than just building muscle.  In fact, the psychological and emotional benefits outweigh the physical benefits. Ultimately, it’s about feeling good.  Staying fit in your forties can change the way you approach midlife.  

A lot of the time we are bogged down with responsibilities.  It can be hard sometimes to make time for ourselves.  Many of us spend most of our time seated behind a desk.  Making time for fitness is the last thing on our list, after a long hard day.  But dedicating 15-30 minutes at least 3 times a week can do wonders.

These days I work from home.  The pandemic has changed my life dramatically.  I no longer go to the gym. I literally spent the whole of 2020 doing nothing, except the occasional brief walk. I started getting back into fitness in 2021.  I was able to find myself again through fitness.  It was absolutely exhilarating, and gave me the motivation I needed to push forward.  ​

I have developed a simple routine that consists of jumping rope, lifting weights, using resistance bands and various exercises for my abs.  I am no fitness guru. But working out from home with the tools I have, has had positive effects on my body and mind.  When I’m  not exercising I can feel a bit a lost.  Having a basic fitness routine helps to keep me focused and grounded.

I think its extremely important to have a fitness routine in your forties. You can choose an activity that best resonates with you.  Bike riding, swimming, pilates, zumba classes or whatever you choose. Just stay active! Midlife can be a challenging time for some women. That shift can make it difficult for women to rediscover themselves. 
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Our lives are not over once we reach midlife, they are just beginning.  Staying fit aligns us with the spirit of youthfulness. because you are only as young as you feel.