52. Making Midlife Fitness Fun for Women Over 40, with Erika Shannon

We know we should exercise. But when moving your body feels like a chore, it’s easy to resist it. What if instead of “should,” we started looking at movement as something joyful, energizing, and protective of our long-term health?In this episode, I’m joined by Erika Shannon, a fitness and wellness expert with over 20 years of experience. Erika specializes in helping women in perimenopause and menopause find sustainable, empowering ways to move their bodies—without the all-or-nothing approach.We talk about what women in their 40s and 50s really need from exercise, why strength and functional movement matter so much in midlife, and how you can create fun, flexible workouts that actually fit into your busy life.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Why exercise in midlife is about protecting your health span (not just lifespan)The six functional movement patterns every woman over 40 should train: push, pull, squat, hinge, carry, and rotateHow muscle mass, bone density, and heart health change in perimenopause and menopause—and what to do about itSimple ways to add “movement snacks” into your day—even if you’re sitting at a desk all dayThe truth about protein, fiber, hydration, and fueling your workouts in midlifeTake Action:Connect with Erika at erikashannon.com.Grab your free functional workout by subscribing to Mind Your Midlife on Patreon or Substack.Take a video of yourself skipping and send it to Cheryl on social! Instagram, LinkedInListen to the Mind Your Midlife episodes on hydration and hormone healthRemember:You don’t have to spend hours in the gym to stay strong and healthy. Exercise isn’t just about looking fit—it’s about building resilience, maintaining independence, and living joyfully in your 40s, 50s, and beyond.Focus on “all or something,” not all or nothing.Find the GreenSynergy Elixir and Energy Fizz duo at cherylpfischer.com/greens. Grab your water bottle, add these, and enjoy!Support the show🌸 Liked this episode? Share it with fellow Gen X women navigating hormone balance, an empty nest, and/or self-confidence!🫶 Love this show? Leave a review to help more women over 50 find us.💡Want menopause advice, mindset shifts, or support with midlife transformation?Find out more about the Midlife Recharge at cherylpfischer.com/rechargeLet’s talk health after 50, self-talk, and redefining aging for women — without the “midlife crisis” narrative. Every week I'm adding new success strategies for midlife women.Connect with Cheryl: Instagram | LinkedIn | Website---------------💡If you are a brand or business wanting to reach an audience of women in their 40s and 50s who are focused on health, success, and taking care of themselves and others well in this stage of life, consider sponsoring Mind Your Midlife podcast.  More information here.