In my youth, particularly in my teens and 20s, my motivation for exercising was primarily aesthetic. I wanted to fit into the latest styles or maintain a certain look. While I was a runner, I was far from speedy—my running was more of a slow, steady plod rather than an exhilarating sprint. I didn’t particularly enjoy it; it was just a convenient way to stay active.
As I entered my 30s and welcomed three children into my life, my perspective on fitness began to shift. I exercised not just for physical appearance, but also to regain my strength in between pregnancies. Occasionally, I would participate in races to prove that I could still be fit, even if my body was constantly changing with each new baby. My wardrobe transformed into a mix of clothes spanning various sizes, from tighter styles to comfortable postpartum options. Yet, something new emerged: after years of ambivalence towards exercise, I found joy in running. The demands of motherhood were exhausting, and running provided me with a much-needed escape. A simple 30-minute run could clear my mind and rejuvenate my spirit. My husband even recognized when I needed this break and would encourage me to lace up my shoes and head out.
Now that I’m 40, running has taken a backseat in my fitness routine. What changed? My children are older and no longer require constant supervision, and I’ve lost that desperate urge to escape. Additionally, my knees and joints have become creakier, making me more aware of the toll years of running have taken on my body. To my surprise, I also found myself working out with a demographic I hadn’t anticipated: older adults.
When I joined a local gym for its childcare services, I often found myself sharing the indoor track with retirees. Initially, I felt swift compared to the seniors who frequented the gym, but I soon realized that I was merely fooling myself. After two C-sections, I discovered that even basic sit-ups were a challenge. While running helped me maintain weight during pregnancy, it did little to address the core issues created by my surgeries.
This led me to Pilates, a discipline focused on core strength, flexibility, and balance. To my astonishment, the Pilates classes were filled with older participants who were far more agile and strong than I was. While I struggled through warm-up exercises, the seniors around me were thriving and inspiring. This experience served as a wake-up call: I was facing the reality of aging. I could either continue to push my body in ways that were no longer beneficial or follow the lead of these fit older individuals I admired.
I cannot turn back the clock to my 20s and 30s, and the only way to go from here is forward. I don’t want to be the 65-year-old who struggles with stairs or the 75-year-old unable to play with her grandchildren. My goal is to be an active and capable 40-year-old. While marathons may no longer be on my agenda, I am not giving up on fitness. Instead, I’m embracing new routines that align with my current abilities. My body may resist running, but it enjoys Pilates, biking, walking, and even trying new activities like skiing and surfing. I look forward to exploring what other options await me—after all, movement is essential, and I’m committed to moving forward.
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Summary:
At 40, the author reflects on her evolving relationship with exercise, shifting from a focus on aesthetics to prioritizing overall well-being and functionality. With the demands of motherhood and physical changes, she discovers new forms of fitness, such as Pilates, that cater to her evolving needs. The article emphasizes the importance of adapting exercise routines and looking forward to maintaining an active lifestyle as one ages.