Think you're too old to get fit over 40? Think again! Today I'm sharing my journey in hopes that it inspires you to take a chance on yourself. You're never too old to improve yourself, your health and your life.
If you've ever felt this way, you might find this helpful. I’m also sharing what I’m doing to “get over myself” and move past my limiting beliefs.
The Feeling of "Not Good Enough" Starts Early
When I was around 14, I wanted to be a singer. My best friend and I would write songs, lip-sync to our favorite artist (mine was Madonna, hers was Led Zeppelin). Even though we had VERY different taste in music, we knew that one day, we’d be famous singers together. But at that moment, we were too young. Or so we thought.
By the time I was 15, my rock star dreams had started to move toward modeling, assuming I could put my awkward height to some use. Only this time, instead of being too young, I was too fat and I didn’t know how to lose the weight, so my dreams of professional modeling never happened either.
By the time I was able to lose the weight (around age 22), I was now entering the “too old” category for any great modeling success, so I never really gave that dream a decent try.
Blogging About Fitness Over 40
Fast forward many (many) years later and I’m now a fitness coach and blogger, helping other women my age look and feel their absolute best. But you know what never leaves me? The idea that I’m way too old to be blogging, particularly about fitness.
So when I heard a successful blogger make a comment on a podcast about no one caring to hear a 49-year-old blogger talking about fitness, I cringed. This is not a person whose opinion matters to me, but all the same, her words kicked me right in my tender insecurity.
It occurred to me just this morning is that this has become a significant trend in my life. I box myself into a limiting belief that no matter what I want, I'm not the right age for it. Honestly, I think I do this as a way for me to give myself a gracious excuse to fail… or not try at all.
Does this resonate with you at all?
Related Post: Fitness transformations at any age.
Getting fit over 40 starts between your ears
Fortunately, with age comes self-awareness and the ability to catch myself when I start believing the nonsense that my head loves to indulge in. When I hear that little voice whispering “you’re too old”, I try to snap myself back into the present moment and remind myself that while I may be too old for that blogger, there’s a litany of other women out there that need more healthy role models, demonstrating what’s possible women in their 40’s and 50’s.
Related Post: My weight loss stories - both of them.
Getting Past Limiting Beliefs About Age
- I focus on being the best version of myself, right now. I don’t consider myself to be exceptionally good at any sport, I'm rarely ever dressed as an adult (because, #yogapants) and my physique is nowhere near perfect, but I do my best to show up as my best self. I try to constantly push the envelope and raise the bar for what's possible for myself as, irrespective of age.
- I steer clear of labels. I’m not a fan of stereotypes, labels or limitations, so when I catch myself indulging in “too old-isms” I seek out examples of women (or men) who defy stereotypes - like bombshell beauties who are equally as smart or petite gals with muscular strength.
- I look for role models that inspire me. I intentionally seek to model myself after real women who run businesses or hold down demanding jobs while still juggling kids, workouts and a social life. What inspires me is watching women in their 70’s, 80’s and 90’s rocking their best selves in marathon races, on a balance beam or on a yoga mat.
Shining examples of everyday fit women over 40
These are just a few of the women I enjoy following on Instagram for fitness inspiration. I hope they inspire you, too
Lynn, Age 50+
Dr. Josefin Monasterio, Age 71
Tosa Reno, Age 58
And me (age 49)
I hope these examples of fit women over 40 inspires you as much as it does me. If you want more inspiration from women over 40, 50 and beyond who are killing it with their healthy lives, check out my Pinterest board and sign up for my weekly wellness emails.
To your health,
Caren
XO
Caren is a certified yoga teacher, fitness instructor and ADHD Coach. As the founder of The Fit Habit, she shares ADHD-friendly self-care, food & fitness inspiration, along with practical ways to foster mind + body wellness.
Jody
Let me just say I come across a lot of websites and yours actually speaks to me. I look forward to reading everything that you have to say. I am 44 years old and have struggled with hypothyroidism for the past 4 years and need to get my health under control. I was an avid runner an used to workout every day until i got sick. Now, I have to tame that voice between my ears.. That's the struggle.
Caren
OMG, Jody, thank you so much for saying that!! You have literally made my month.
I'm sorry you're struggling with hypothyroidism. That's a tough place to be. I also know exactly what you mean about the voice between your ears. it's our own worst enemy.
I do monthly coaching groups, so if you ever want more support, I'm here for you. Meanwhile, thank you so much for your comment. You're very kind!!
Cheers and happy new year, friend!
Caren
Diana Lopezd
Woao Caren !! This is so amazing to know - I am 48 now, staring my fitness journey as well as other journeys :P, and yes, have had the same limiting beliefs, but making myself free of them day by day. Reading your blog, and seeing all this badass women champions is such an inspiration! Let"s us find a new way to define our years!!
Caren
Thanks for the kind words, Diana! Yes - you can change anything you want about your life at 48. You're young, strong and so capable! Thanks for being here!