Looking for a “Fountain of Youth” for yourself? Most of us typically chase after maintaining our youth with bottles and tubes of creams, lotions, hair color, etc. The vast majority of us lament the woes of aging – aches and pains, joint stiffness, wrinkles, age spots, fatigue – just to name a few. Watching your babies grow up and away has its own pretty harsh sting. You are NOT alone, my friend! However, let’s really look at a different perspective ~ growing older means that we have lived! And hopefully, by the grace of God, we GET to continue to live – to laugh, to love, and to do so fully. YOU are in control of your own choices and habits, so YOU are actually in the proverbial drivers seat. Healthy aging IS entirely possible and accessible to you. Let’s break this down just a bit:

A tale of two photos. . .

The first is from my most recent competition, April, 2024. The bodybuilding community is absolutely amazing; these gorgeous ladies have become dear friends all thanks to bodybuilding and competing together. What I want to point out today is that all three of us are 58 years young. Yup, 58! Preparing for competitions myself, I know just what it takes to train and to prepare at this level. We have all survived all sorts of different ailments and trials; for example, sick children, chronic illnesses and injuries, menopause, heartbreaking losses of family members, etc. Throughout each adverse circumstance, healthy nutrition and consistent exercise has been an anchor of sorts. Aesthetics is actually a very small benefit compared to the emotional and mental benefits exercise gives us! The three of us have lived a healthy, fit lifestyle for many years, and are still actively and successfully competing at a Natural Pro level.

On to the next photo – a dear friend from high school suffered a horrific injury nearly eight (8) years ago. She’s endured multiple surgeries, hopeless prognoses, been bedridden and told she was and would be disabled. Being bedridden and healing from multiple surgeries is not only physically draining, but emotionally and mentally as well. Since we were friends in high school, it is no secret that she is also now in her 50’s. She refused to give up or give in, and made full use of every physical therapy and workout therapy she could. Fast forward to this month, and after working together for a few months whether she was travelling or at home, she is SOOO much better and stronger! She just recently climbed a rock wall on a cruise! She is very active and makes exercise and stretching a priority. That has drastically changed and improved her life.

I’m sharing all of this to say that it is never too late for any of us! We are all going to grow old(er), by the grace of God. He has equipped each of us with purpose, and that purpose does not end or stop just because we reach a certain age. It might change, but we all have a purpose! By prioritizing your personal health and improving or maintaining your fitness level, you improve your quality of life and your longevity. Everyone has different goals, and whether yours is to become or continue to be an athlete, or just to protect your balance, mobility, and strength, investing in your health is imperative. Even with chronic medical conditions that limit you, you can still make the most of what you have! I have seen such amazing results in my clients and in ladies in my fitness classes. The community and friendships encourage them to keep going, and they are having such a great time all while getting fit and healthy! Stay active, find a community or group of friends, and get going!

Remember that only you can decide to take charge of your health and longevity. Even though we get older, life does not end! It doesn’t really even slow down, does it?! Certainly, things change – but we can take full advantage of new opportunities! Check your perspective. Find or build a healthy, thriving community of friends and/or workout buddies. Get moving, and put yourself back in that driver’s seat. Do not just accept that aging will limit you; it simply isn’t the case. You set your own limits.

As always, if you find that you are struggling to set goals, and/or to get a plan of action in place, I am here for you! I would truly love to help you create a sustainable plan and to help you find your very best self. Please feel free to reach out to me through this site, or email me at Fitteachermom@aol.com.