04/08/2026
I used to think I needed to train more. At 40, I’ve realised I actually need to train better.
Here’s what my training week looks like now:
1. Three full-body strength sessions.
I lift weights just three days a week, but every session is intentional. I focus on heavy compound lifts (around RPE 8), progressive overload, unilateral work, and maintaining relative strength rather than just chasing numbers.
2. Plyometrics every strength session.
Every gym session starts with jumps or explosive movements that match the workout and my current capacity. As we age, we lose power faster than strength if we don’t train it. I want to keep my body capable of producing, absorbing, and reacting to force for decades to come.
3. One brutally hard cardio session.
Once a week I push my heart rate into the 180-190 bpm range and finish with nothing left in the tank. It’s uncomfortable, but maintaining a high aerobic ceiling and VO₂ max is one of the best investments I can make for my long-term health.
4. Reformer Pilates. (Unpopular opinion.)
Reformer Pilates has been one of the best things I’ve done since having two children, especially after my VBAC. The key is finding an instructor who emphasises progressive loading, glute strength, and deep core function—not endless complicated combinations that look good on Instagram.
5. I stay active outside the gym.
Training doesn’t end when I leave the weights room. Chasing my kids and living an active lifestyle means I naturally average around 12,000 steps a day.
At 40, I’m not training just to look good now. I’m training to be strong, powerful, capable, and independent for the next 40 years.
What does your training split look like?