I was in my mid-thirties when I started to get serious about my workouts. I knew nothing about weight training or any other workouts for that matter. But I knew I wanted to get into shape, so I did what any novice would do, I ordered a workout program from an infomercial I saw on television! And to put all things into perspective, the workouts were recorded on VHS tapes - tells you how long ago that was, right?
These workout videos changed my life in so many ways. Not only did I start getting stronger physically, but it was also my catalyst to strengthen my courage and just like that, my personal growth journey was birthed.
I would be lying if I said I stayed consist through out the last 20 years with my workouts, but it continued to stay on my radar and workouts would occur periodically. Although, I eventually transitioned into running and left much of the workouts and weight training behind.
That is until most recently. As a woman in midlife, and seeing my mother progress in her aging process, it has become clear to me how important muscle mass is and weight bearing exercises are. And this photo is a representation of my commitment, which was taken just last week, on a visit to my parents house, after a quick 2+ mile run with my daughter.
I know some women are uncomfortable or uncertain about incorporating weights and weight training into their routine. So I wanted to share a few important reasons why you should consider adding them and why muscle mass is so important for women in midlife and beyond.
1. Muscle mass and metabolism: as we age, our metabolism tends to slow down, leading to an increased likelihood of weight gain. Muscles are metabolically active tissue, meaning they burn calories even when the body is at rest. Having more muscle mass can help boost metabolism and make it easier to manage weight during midlife and beyond.
2. Bone health: Osteoporosis is a condition that affects bone density and strength, making bones more susceptible to fractures. Strength training exercises, which promote muscle growth, have been shown to support bone health by increasing bone density and reducing the risk of osteoporosis-related fractures.
3. Hormonal balance: Hormonal changes during menopause can lead to a loss of muscle mass and increased fat accumulation, particularly around the abdominal area. Building and maintaining muscle can help balance hormones and potentially mitigate some of the symptoms associated with menopause.
4. Strength and functional ability: as we age, there is a natural decline in muscle strength and functional abilities. This can affect daily activities and independence. By maintaining strong muscles, we can improve our functional capacity, making it easier to perform everyday tasks and reducing the risk of injury.
5. Joint health: Strong muscles provide better support for the joints, reducing the stress placed on them during movement. This can be particularly beneficial for those of us who may experience joint pain or stiffness as we age.
6. Mental well-being: Regular exercise, including strength training, has been shown to have positive effects on mental health, reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression and improving cognitive function. Feeling physically strong and capable can boost self-esteem and confidence.
7. Long-term independence: Building and maintaining muscle mass can enhance overall physical performance and resilience, promoting long-term independence and an active lifestyle in older age.
Just a caveat- you should engage in strength training and muscle-building activities that suit your individual ability and fitness level. Consulting with a healthcare professional or certified fitness trainer can help create a safe and effective exercise plan.
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Feel free to share your thoughts about incorporating weights into your workout routine in the comments!

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