A Journey of Transformation: Finding My Strength After 56
December 2023 found me standing before a mirror, grappling with a powerful question: “Is this truly what life is like after 56?” The image staring back at me revealed too many extra pounds, a lack of energy, and biometric markers that fell short of my aspirations. In that moment, I realized that this was not the person I wanted to be—or believed I could be. Behind the “mask” of aging and self-doubt, an energetic spirit was yearning for freedom.
I stood there, resolute, refusing to accept that this was my fate. It was time for a turning point, a moment where I would reclaim my life and rewrite my story. Inspired by Marie Forleo’s mantra, “Everything is Figureoutable,” I felt a rush of determination. I knew I needed to explore lifestyle changes, thoughtful dietary adjustments, and an exercise program that honored my individuality—not just a temporary fix or another fleeting trend.
This journey would require the “3 C’s of Life” to shine through: **Choice**, **Chance**, and **Change**.
I embraced the choice to prioritize my well-being, to take a chance on my potential,
and to open my heart to the changes that awaited.
Photo taken February 2, 2024 with my brother
Photo taken February 4, 2024 with my husband
Over the next two months, I plunged into research, discovering a wealth of knowledge through online resources, informative books, and inspiring YouTube videos. I learned about the importance of a protein-forward, muscle-centric approach to fitness and nutrition. Influential voices like Dr. Gabrielle Lyon and Petra Genco guided me, offering valuable insights and practical tips that resonated deeply with my goals.
I won’t deny that there was an element of mathematics involved in this journey. At first, it felt daunting, but I soon realized that understanding my body was empowering. I learned to calculate my Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) and how to adjust it to create an achievable weight-loss plan. Setting daily protein goals—matching my target weight—became a daily ritual, motivating me to make choices that aligned with my aspirations.
You cannot and I repeat not walk enough steps to lose the weight you desire
without adding in weights and cardio exercise!!
Photo taken August 9, 2024 with my brother
Photo taken August 9, 2024 with my husband
I crafted a well-rounded exercise plan designed to energize and strengthen my body. It included:
**Walking** at least 12,000 steps daily, or around 3.11 miles (5k)
Engaging in **35 minutes of stretching and cardio** videos once a week
Committing to **40 minutes of small weightlifting and core workouts** on two days of the week
Dedicating **30 minutes in the gym** using weight machines three times a week for a full-body strength regimen
Enjoying a well-deserved **rest day**, yet still aiming for my daily step goal
With unwavering commitment to my new muscle-centric protein-forward diet and exercise routine, six months passed, and I could proudly declare that I was over two-thirds of the way to my goal. The weight began to shed, and with each passing week, I felt stronger, more vibrant, and more alive.
My biometric markers improved substantially—BMI decreased, blood pressure balanced, VO₂ max and pulse oxygen levels rose, and my resting heart rate settled in the low 50s. Just a month before my 57th birthday, I feel the best I had in over 20 years, radiating with energy and confidence. This journey has taught me that it’s never too late to prioritize yourself, to rediscover the extraordinary life that awaits.
To anyone out there feeling hesitant or shy about sharing their own journey: remember, you are worthy of transformation.
Make the choice to take a chance on yourself, and embrace the changes that will unlock your potential. After all, we only get one life—why settle for anything less than extraordinary?
Let’s rise together, inspiring each other along the way! If you need some encouragement, please reach out as we can’t do this alone, nor should we. I will be sharing 30g protein based recipes in the future so please follow my blog.