One of the most vivid memories I have from my childhood is the first time I went to soccer practice and was asked to do push-ups by the coach. I immediately dismissed the idea, thinking, “you don’t use your arms in soccer.” Unsurprisingly, that was the last soccer practice I ever attended. Sports were never my forte as a child, except for a short stint in gymnastics.
As I entered my teens, I veered away from athletics and focused on theater arts. It wasn’t until my senior year of high school when my cheerleader friend convinced me to try out for the squad that I rekindled my interest in physical activity. That summer turned out to be the most intense workout regimen I had ever experienced.
Throughout college and my 20s, I struggled to maintain a consistent workout routine. However, at the age of 31, living alone in a new city, I decided to start a fitness journey that would change my life. With the help of the Couch to 5K app and weightlifting, I began to see significant improvements in my physical and mental well-being. Encouraged by the positive feedback I received on social media, I decided to pursue a career in fitness.
As a fitness coach, I have witnessed the transformative power of starting a fitness routine at any age. It’s never too late to prioritize your health and well-being. In fact, starting later in life can have numerous benefits for both the body and mind. Experts recommend beginning with low-impact exercises and gradually increasing intensity as your fitness level improves.
At 38, I am in the best shape of my life and am focused on building strength for the long term. I have run half marathons and various races, defying the notion that I couldn’t be an athlete. Don’t let doubts or fears hold you back from pursuing your fitness goals. Whether you’re in your 30s, 40s, or beyond, it’s never too late to start your fitness journey. So lace up your shoes, hit the pavement, and start moving towards a healthier you.
