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The first time I stepped into a gym I was 56. Prior to this, I had never really taken exercise too seriously or made it a priority. I'd always enjoyed walking and attempted a bit of Pilates, but nothing consistent. Quite honestly, I was always so busy running around here and there, juggling family life, as you do in your 30s and 40s, I didn't really see the need to exercise. Crikey, I was getting enough steps in on an average day!
Even when my son went through major heart surgery at the young age of 23, I still didn't get that wake-up call for myself. I was far too focused on everyone else, like most mums, I imagine.
Each morning I'd get out of bed aching and sore, creaking like I needed oiling just to get going. One day my daughter looked at me, completely serious, and said,
“Mum, you're getting old, you move like an old person.”
For once, I stopped and realised she was right.
Mentally, I didn't feel old, but my body certainly did. I realised that yes, I was active, but not the right kind of active. Running around like a headless chicken, stressed to the eyeballs with endless chores and lists, was not the physically supportive kind of movement I needed. I wasn’t doing myself any favours at all.
Something had to change.
Well… fast forward six months.
One thing I hadn't really considered at the beginning was how important nutrition is, especially protein. As we get older, we naturally lose muscle, and I realised that if I wanted to feel stronger, I needed to support my body properly, not just move it more.
Alongside my workouts, I started adding a good-quality collagen and protein supplement into my routine from Raw Beauty Lab. Nothing dramatic, just a simple daily habit to support muscle tone, joint comfort and recovery. I genuinely noticed I felt less stiff and more supported after workouts.
Now, I'm not going to give you a workout routine or tell you that I can transform your body in 10 days. there are far more qualified people out there for that. But what I will tell you is this: consistency really is key.
Regular exercise is such a powerful tool. It’s not just about muscles or having the body of a goddess. It’s about feeling flexible. Being able to move freely. Going shopping and carrying your bags without feeling like your insides are falling out. And let’s not forget the mental benefits - those feel-good hormones, the boost in confidence, the resilience that starts to build quietly in the background.
There’s no need to rush out and buy loads of expensive equipment to start, just a few simple bits are enough to get you going. There are plenty of great YouTube videos online, try a few and find one that feels fun and manageable. Keep switching things up, and if you feel ready, why not test out a local gym or see what’s happening at your local sports centre, maybe badminton or swimming? You don’t have to commit to anything until you’re sure it’s for you.
These are a few of the simple bits I started with, nothing fancy, just things that made moving my body feel easier and more comfortable. Some of the links below are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only ever share things I genuinely use or love.
Resistance Bands – I absolutely love these. They make exercises feel more effective, and I’ve noticed a subtle change in the shape of my legs, which has given me a real boost to keep going.
Dumbbell Set (1–2.5kg) – A nice light set to get started with, and they come with storage.
Yoga Mat – Not the most expensive mat, but great value for beginners. It’s so important to feel comfortable while you’re working out.
Foam Roller – Handy to relieve any aches and stiffness after a workout.
Exercise Step – Not essential, but very useful once you get going. Many YouTube workouts use a step, and these are much safer and sturdier than balancing on a small stool from around the house.
So… what are you waiting for?
This is your reminder today that YOU are worth investing in.
Go on — give it a try.
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