In my younger years, particularly during my teens and 20s, my motivation for exercise was primarily centered around my appearance—it was all about fitting into certain clothes. I was an average runner—not particularly fast—but it served its purpose as a quick and effective workout regimen.
As I entered my 30s and welcomed three children into my life, my relationship with fitness shifted. I found myself exercising to regain my shape between pregnancies and occasionally participating in races to demonstrate that I was still in decent physical condition, even if my reality was more complex. My closet became a reflection of this journey, filled with everything from standard pants to maternity wear in various stages of use.
What truly transformed my perspective was the realization that, after years of ambivalence, I started to genuinely look forward to running. The demands of young motherhood were exhausting—physically and emotionally. I found solace in my runs, using them as an opportunity to clear my mind and recharge. My husband even encouraged me to take those breaks whenever he noticed the stress building up on my face.
Fast forward to age 40, and my running days have significantly diminished. What changed? For one, my children are now all of school age, which has alleviated my need to escape. Additionally, my joints began to protest after years of rigorous exercise, and I grew increasingly concerned about the long-term impact of the miles I had logged over the years.
Interestingly, my fitness journey took a turn when I began working out alongside an older demographic at the gym. Joining a facility that offered childcare, I often found myself among retirees on the indoor track. Initially, I felt a sense of superiority as I passed them by, but I soon discovered that my physical capabilities were not as strong as I had presumed. After two C-sections, I struggled with basic exercises like sit-ups, revealing the toll motherhood had taken on my body.
This realization prompted me to explore Pilates, which emphasizes core strength, flexibility, and balance. To my surprise, the Pilates class was filled with seniors who were not only keeping pace but also excelling. I found their vigor and resilience incredibly motivating. It dawned on me that I would age, and I had a choice: I could either cling to the workout routines of my youth or adapt my approach to fitness to foster longevity and health.
Aging gracefully became my new goal. I don’t aspire to be a 65-year-old struggling with stairs or a 75-year-old unable to engage with her grandchildren. Instead, I want to maintain my mobility and strength as I grow older.
Currently, I accept that I may never run another marathon, and that’s perfectly fine. This is not about conceding defeat; it’s about evolving. My body may no longer appreciate running, but it enjoys activities such as Pilates, cycling, walking, and even trying out skiing and surfing. Each new activity is an adventure, and I’m excited to embrace what comes next. Movement, in any form, is a positive step forward.
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Summary
Rediscovering fitness at 40 means adapting to the changes in your body and lifestyle. With a focus on longevity rather than past achievements, it’s important to embrace new forms of exercise that promote health and well-being. Whether it’s Pilates, cycling, or other activities, the key is to keep moving forward.
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