My Fit After 40 Journey: What I’m Doing Differently This Time

If you had asked me years ago what being “fit” meant, my answer would’ve focused on workouts, calories, and the number on the scale. I chased results hard and sometimes at the expense of my energy, mindset, and peace.

Now that I’m over 40, I see fitness differently. My body is different. My priorities are different. And honestly? My approach has changed for the better.

This blog exists because I know I’m not alone. Many women hit their 40s and realize that what used to work… just doesn’t anymore. This is my Fit After 40 journey and what I’m doing differently this time around.

Why Fitness Looks Different After 40

After 40, your body starts sending clearer signals—and ignoring them just doesn’t work like it used to.

Things I’ve noticed:

• Recovery takes longer

• Stress affects my body more

• Sleep plays a bigger role than ever

• Hormones impact weight and energy

• Overdoing it leads to burnout fast

I’ve learned that pushing harder isn’t always the answer. Listening better is.

Instead of asking, “How can I do more?”
I now ask, “What does my body actually need?”

What Didn’t Work for Me Anymore

Let’s talk about the things I had to let go of—because they weren’t serving me anymore.

Overtraining

There was a time when I believed more workouts meant better results. Now I know that too much intensity leads to fatigue, inflammation, and stalled progress.

Undereating

Eating as little as possible backfired. It messed with my energy, my mood, and my metabolism.

All-or-Nothing Thinking

If I couldn’t do it “perfectly,” I felt like I had failed. That mindset kept me stuck longer than anything else.

Letting go of these habits was uncomfortable but necessary.

What I’m Doing Differently This Time

This season is about working with my body, not against it.

Strength Training Is My Foundation

Strength training has become my priority—not just for appearance, but for longevity, confidence, and bone health. I focus on lifting smart, not exhausting myself.

Walking Is Underrated

Walking has become one of my most powerful tools. It supports fat loss, reduces stress, and feels sustainable especially on busy days.

Protein, Hydration & Support

I’m intentional about protein, hydration, and supplements that support recovery, energy, and sleep. These small habits add up more than extreme plans ever did.

Recovery Matters

Rest days are no longer something I “earn” they’re something I schedule. Stretching, mobility, sleep, and stress management are part of my routine now.

Being Fit Is More Than Physical

This is where Fit After 40 really comes to life for me.

Fit in My Finances

Financial stress impacts health more than we talk about. Learning to manage money, reduce stress, and build confidence financially has helped me show up better physically and mentally.

Fit in My Relationships

Healthy boundaries, support systems, and giving myself permission to prioritize my well-being have changed everything. Fitness isn’t just about what you do, it’s about who you’re doing life with.

Fit in My Mindset

Consistency beats motivation. Progress beats perfection. And grace matters more than guilt.

What This Blog Is Really About

Fit After 40 with Shannon isn’t about chasing perfection or unrealistic standards.

It’s about:

• Feeling strong and capable

• Making sustainable changes

• Learning what works now, not what worked years ago

• Building a life that feels balanced and aligned

I’ll be sharing workouts, supplements, meal planning, fitness clothing, products I use, and real-life lessons along the way always with honesty and intention.

If You’re On This Journey Too…

If you’re over 40 and feeling like you’re starting again, welcome. You’re not behind. You’re not broken. And you’re not alone.

This is a season of smart strength, not burnout.
Of progress, not perfection.

And I’m really glad you’re here.

Follow along as I share what’s helping me feel fit in every area of life after 40.