Why it's Never Too Late to Get Active: A Note to Women of Any Age

This week we are handing the blog over to someone who sees it happen every single week: how often women hold themselves back from moving, sure they have somehow missed their moment. Jen Parker is a Pilates instructor and personal trainer, and her message is one we believe in to our core. It is never too late, and you are never too old. Over to Jen.

A few weeks ago, I was chatting with a new member in the gym. Louise is mid-50s. She hasn't exercised in over two decades and somewhat nervously told me - half-apologetic, half-hopeful - 'I probably should have done this years ago.'

Here's the thing, I hear some version of that sentence/sentiment pretty much every week. From women of all ages who have realised they want and need to do something for themselves after focusing their life solely on their kids or a demanding career for the past 10+ years.

Then there's the women in their 40s and 50s who think strength training is a young person's game and will make them bulky. And the women in their 60s and 70s who assume Pilates is only for younger girls in their matching leggings and sports tops like you see on social media.

Here's what I tell every one of them: It's never too late. You're never too old. The important thing is that you are here now starting to make changes that will improve your life day to day and in the long run.

Fitness isn't just a young woman's game

The good news is that your body will respond to training at every age. It doesn't know how old you are - it just knows whether you're asking it to move.

Your ability to make improvements in your health and fitness doesn't disappear with age. It is just your starting point and pace that may have changed. And that's simply a fact, but by no means a limitation.

The reality of life as a woman at 30, 40, 50+

Careers, kids, ageing parents, shifting hormones, less sleep - your life (and your body) genuinely isn't the same as it was at 22. You may be recovering slower, carrying an old injury, or starting to navigate perimenopause or menopause. These realities don't take movement off the table; they just change the approach we take. A plan with consistent, smart training that works with your body and your lifestyle in mind are the key to success.

Why starting later can actually be an advantage

Women who come to fitness later often stick with it longer, mentally. You're not chasing a number on the scale or doing a 6 week bikini booty body challenge. You're training so you can carry the groceries without pain, keep up with your grandkids, or simply feel strong and confident in your body again.

That kind of motivation doesn't burn out after six weeks like a new years resolution does.

A few honest truths

• You are not behind - everyone starts where you're starting now.

• Your first session doesn't need to be groundbreaking. It just needs to happen.

• Pain and stiffness often aren't something to wait out - the right movement can help you move with an ease you thought was gone forever.

• Strength training won't make you bulky, but it will make you more capable.

• Two or three focused sessions a week, done consistently, is enough to create change.

So, if you're on the fence this is my advice to you

Stop waiting for the 'right time' - some predetermined line in the sand society has drawn for you.

Take the plunge, start small. One class, one walk turned jog, one conversation with a trainer who actually listens instead of handing you a generic plan that doesn't take your individual circumstances into consideration.

Being more active has no age limit, and it will 100% make you feel stronger in the body you're in, right now. Of that I can guarantee you.

So if you're wondering whether it's too late - it isn't. This is just the beginning, not another quick fix.

Written by Jen Parker, Pilates Instructor & Personal Trainer. www.jenparker.co.uk email: jen@jenparker.co.uk Thank you, Jen. This is exactly why HerMove exists, to take apart the idea that sport and movement belong to a certain age, a certain body or a certain type of person. Wherever you are starting from, there is a place for you.

If Jen's words have given you a nudge, let HerMove Live26 be your one small step. It is free, it is welcoming, and there is something to try whatever your starting point. Saturday 12 September, 11:30 to 3:00, at East Grinstead Sports Club.

Get your free ticket: https://www.hermove.uk/event-details/hermove-live26

HerMove is independent and community powered. We run on donations, grants and the support of local businesses, which is what keeps what we do free and open to all. If you would like to help, you can at https://www.hermove.uk/support