Ep 79 - Exercising Hard vs Exercising Right: What Women Over 35 Need to Understand

In today’s episode of Non Negotiable Living, Ashley breaks down one of the biggest misconceptions in fitness: the belief that workouts only count if they leave you completely exhausted. She explains how the fitness industry has glorified high intensity training and why that approach often stops working for women as they move into their 30s and 40s.Ashley dives into the role of cortisol and how constantly pushing high intensity workouts—on top of the stress of careers, parenting, and busy lives—can lead to chronic stress, poor recovery, and stubborn belly fat. Instead of doubling down on more cardio and harder workouts, she explains why the body most women want is actually built through strength training, recovery, and sustainable movement.This episode explores the power of progressive overload, the importance of rest days, and why daily walking is one of the most underrated tools for fat loss and metabolic health. Ashley reframes fitness as a long term strategy focused on longevity, muscle preservation, and functional independence so women can stay strong, active, and healthy for decades to come.