Fitness at (ALMOST) 40

I recently turned 39.  That's right, the last year in my 30s!  Life passes by so quickly.  For a long time, I believed that by the time I reached this point, (almost mid-life) physically, it would all "be over."  You hear all the time about hitting 40 and that's it-- no metabolism, big time weight gain, destined for the body you never wanted to have and frustration to go with it.

I now personally know that it's a bunch of nonsense.  Sure, your body feels the effects of time and age, but there is no reason to give up on yourself.  My secret weapon to a fit body at this point really isn't a secret:  it's strength training.  This is imperative for all ages, young and old.  Strength training will keep your muscles, joints, and bones strong, help with optimal movement, and raise your metabolism.  If you do nothing, or JUST cardio activity, you will lose your muscle with age, gain fat, and have a flat metabolism.  No thank you!

Can you be as intense in your workouts in a 40 year old body as a 20 year old body?  It won't be the same, but you can push yourself and your abilities at any point.  Be careful not to slip into the "all or nothing" mentality, but find the right intensity for you.

There is hope.  It's never too late to start strength training.  Your aging body will respond positively and lead to a snowball effect of feeling better, stronger, clothes fitting better, etc.  If you don't know what to do to get started, find some guidance....a trainer, a book, a class, etc.  

Get FIT. Be FIT. Stay FIT......at any age.