Turning 40 Changed The Way I Train
Turning 40 last year was a real turning point for me.
It gave me this sudden realisation that yes, I am getting older, and I want to age well. Not just now, but for the next 10, 20, 30 and 40 years.
It was exactly what I needed to stop doing exercise just because I “should”, and start training in a way that actually supports my body, my energy and my future.
I’m training with more purpose now
One of the biggest shifts has been becoming more strategic with my training, recovery and fuelling.
“I’m also much more strategic with my training and recovery now too. Understanding how to train for peri to post menopause has been absolutely game changing.”
I’m not just trying to fit in random workouts or smash myself every session. I’m thinking about what my body needs, what helps me feel strong, and what will support me as I head into perimenopause and beyond.
“I fuel my body to perform in my workouts (and life) so I can get maximum benefits, rather than aimless eating that doesn’t serve me.”
That mindset shift has changed everything.
Strength feels different when you know why it matters
As women, we naturally start to lose strength, speed and power from our 30s, and this can accelerate through perimenopause.
But the best part is, we can do something about it.
“I’m training for what I know I’m losing, strength, speed and power, because the reality of losing these as I hit ‘peri’ has actually sunk in. There’s something I can do about it and that’s so motivating.”
That’s why strength training has become such a priority for me.
“I’m prioritising strength training like never before, not because I should but because I can literally feel the benefits everyday.”
It helps me feel stronger, more capable, more energised and more confident in my body.
It’s not about perfection
I still have days where I don’t feel like exercising. We all do.
But now I think about the bigger picture.
“On days I don’t really feel like it, I picture my 80 year old self — strong and capable, and that’s usually enough to get me moving!”
That’s what keeps me going. Not pressure. Not guilt. Not punishment.
Just the reminder that what I do now matters.
“Instead of squeezing exercise in, I’m making time for it. There’s a difference. It’s become so important for my health and future.”
I care less, and that helps too
Another bonus of getting older?
“I care less about what people think so that frees up mental capacity to exercise, journal and do other things that support how I feel. It’s a positive cycle!”
There’s so much freedom in choosing what supports you and letting go of what doesn’t.
For me, that has meant prioritising strength, recovery, fuelling well and doing the things that help me feel good.
It’s never too late to start
“Turning 40 changed my relationship with exercise completely.”
But you don’t have to wait until 40 to start.
- Not 40 yet? Perfect. Start building strength now.
- In your 40s? Such a powerful time to begin.
- In your 50s, 60s or beyond? Even better. It is never too late to get stronger.
You don’t need to overhaul your whole life. You don’t need to be fit already. You don’t need to know exactly what you’re doing.
You just need somewhere supportive to start.
Join our Beginner Strength Challenge
Our Beginner Strength Challenge is designed to help women build strength, confidence and consistency in a way that feels realistic and achievable.
Perfect if you’re new to strength training, coming back after a break, or ready to stop putting it off.
Join the Beginner Strength Challenge and start building strength for the woman you are now, and the woman you want to be in the years ahead.
