‘I Started Strength Training at 37. Now, at 46, My Workout Routine Helps Me Build Muscle and Strength—And It’s Still Fun.'

With her help, I learned that strength training wasn’t something I needed to fear because of my injuries; it was actually something that would help me heal. I began feeling confident with weights, and eventually, started strength training on my own one or two days each week outside of physical therapy. The combination of strength training, intentional movement, and a focus on nutrition allowed me to lose 50 pounds, build significant muscle, and, most importantly, become pain-free. Here’s my split: I do full-body strength training twice a week on Mondays and Fridays using a combination of dumbbells and weight machines. Getting back into an exercise routine with a debilitating back injury at 37 and walking back into the gymnastics gym at 41 was equal parts exciting and intimidating.