Staying Fit After 40

By Lifeasarunningmom @RunningMom6
I don't really want to get on the age bandwagon but your physical fitness and needs can, and most likely will, change as you get older. Sorry gals but it is true.
Perhaps you are noticing a shift in your hormones, a bit more tummy fluff, and that what you always did isn't having the same impact. That happens and typically they say after 40 but I do not want to stereotype but eventually, our hormones will change and beyond periods getting crazier and then non-existent, other things change.
It makes complete sense. I studied biology and completely understand all the vital roles hormones play in our body. They are our little regulators and when the group in charge changes, we change. 'nuff said.
But that doesn't mean you just need to accept what it is. Well, you do need to accept things change but you can take proactive steps to keep your body strong and healthy.
Here are some tips I have with a focus on ladies in their 40's and beyond.
  1. Add short bursts of high intensity training to increase calorie burn - squat jumps, jumping jacks, sprints
  2. Add strength training to boost muscle mass and keep your metabolism strong - push up's, planks, tricep dips
  3. Eat well - don't undo all your hard work with poor food choices - eat 5-6 small meals, include protein in your meals, decrease starchy carbs (and keep an eye on those cocktails and specialty drinks)
  4. Catch your zzz's - set a sleep schedule and stick to it (I am loving the bedtime feature on my phone and have it set to a daily nighttime and alarm that goes off gently at the same time every single day. I am not loving that I am slow to getting myself up the first time but am working on it.)
  5. Manage stress - daily gratitude, prayer, quiet moments

I have found by incorporating these strategies in my life that my fitness in my 40's is getting better each and every day. I am the strongest I have ever been and that ladies is way cool!

Daily Gratitude: I am thankful for home exercises.

Daily Bible Verse: From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work. ~ Ephesians 4:16