In our culture, we’re told that once we hit a certain age that we suddenly on a “decline.”
WAIT, just who decided that anyways??
In less than 2 years I’m going to be 50…but yet, I’m in the best shape of my life!
Here are the 4 things that have helped me stay in shape, feeling and looking better then I felt in my 20’s….
1. From 2-Hour Workouts To 30 Minute Workouts:
I used to work out every day for 2 long hours.
The first hour being strength training and then another long- long hour of cardio on the dreaded elliptical machine! I did this for years UGH! Who has time for this?!
These days, I only workout 30 minutes per day using science proven high intensity interval training that combines strength and cardio all in one.
These workouts help me build muscle, lose fat PLUS my metabolism is high so my body is burning more calories every day than I would on that dreaded elliptical!
In turn, I feel super energized and look better than I did 20 years ago. Besides, it’s just so much easier to do!
By doing these workouts 3 – 4 times per week, I have managed to stay fit, I have more energy throughout the day, I’m more productive at my work, and I sleep better.
My blood pressure and cholesterol levels are normal. I don’t have the aches and pains that most people my age have.
OH!! And did you know that evidence shows that regular resistance (strength) training at least 3 times per week increase bone density which reduces osteoporosis related fractures and prevents bone loss!!
(that’s definitely a plus for sure. I don’t need any broken bones LOL)
2. Nutrition is key to a long healthy life and looking fit.
OK, so this is a tough one for most of us! Nutrition is important as we get older. Especially when it comes to muscle loss, thinner skin, heart health, gut health and so much more.
We all want to live longer and healthier, (I know I do)!
What I’ve found is the types of foods I eat are the key to feeling fabulous everyday and having loads of energy!
Fortunately for me, I learned which healthy foods work best for my body and what’s needed for a healthy gut.
For example: I am can’t eat ground nuts like peanuts because they give me gas, (yes I said it…I’m human and I get gas) and they make me bloat, whereas tree nuts like walnuts and almonds don’t affect me at all.
I also stay away from dairy, gluten, and sugar because they cause inflammation inside the body, which has been linked to chronic diseases.
I eat small meals throughout the day eating protein at every meal.
I eat carbs the first 3 meals like sweet potatoes, brown rice, quinoa, and oats since it serves as my energy source for the first part of the day.
I then taper off over the remainder of my meals from carbs to healthy fats like avocados, seeds, nuts, olive oils, etc.
This helps keep me full longer. I try to eat every meal at the same time each day.
I also buy Organic no matter what. With the amount of pesticides that are found in our fruits and vegetables is super scary.
Here’s some good advice to live by… make sure that half your plate is always full of colorful vegetables.
When it comes to buying meats, I get grass-fed and antibiotics or hormone free.
Oh, and I always buy my seafood wild caught not farm raised.
I do enjoy the occasional cheat meal on Saturdays however I make it a “Controlled” cheat meal. For example: I might have 2 slices of pizza instead of the whole pie LOL!!
And Finally, I stay hydrated throughout the day by drinking at least 8 eight ounces of water per day, (I drink more during the hotter seasons).
3. Hire a Coach!
I always hire a coach to keep me accountable to my goals and to support me when days get tough and stressful, and all I want to do is blow off my workouts and eat a pint of ice cream.
Look… the main point here is I’ve learned that no matter how disciplined I am, hard days will come!
Days when you want to “give up” regardless of your commitment level. Having a coach has always gotten me past these days and kept me focused on my goal!
4. The importance of “Self Care” and how it’s made a difference in my life over the years!
Self care has been crucial for me as I get older.
As a fitness coach, being of service to others, helping them improve their own health, it is very important that I get my mind right every morning before starting my day!
I take it upon myself to get up a few hours before I start working and practice self care first thing in the morning.
I meditate for about 15 minutes then I give ‘gratitude’ meaning what I am grateful and blessed for.
Then I change my mindset around by saying what I “get to” do today instead of what I “have to” do today!
This has helped me over the years both personally and professionally.
So that’s it… the 4 things that have helped me stay in shape, feeling and looking better then I felt in my 20’s.
I use these same 4 steps to help others. Coaching them toward a healthy lifestyle so they can look and feel great and live this one amazing life to the fullest.
This is what I’ve learned over the last 30 years of my fitness journey.
Through success, (and failure) I have managed to develop and maintain a healthy routine.
And you know what?
Surprisingly, It’s much easier now, (at almost 50), to live and maintain my mind, body, and overall health than ever before!
It’s why I’m so passionate about helping women over 40 get in the best shape of their life so they feel better in their body now then when they were in their 20’s.
If this resonates with you, I’d love to hear from you:)
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