Getting Back Into Fitness (For Real) — My Realistic Fitness Routine as I Approach 40

Let’s be honest — getting back into a fitness routine after the holidays (or after a break in general) is not always glamorous. There’s usually a little excitement, a little resistance, and a whole lot of “okay… let’s just start.”

With my 40th birthday less than two months away, I’ve been thinking a lot about how I want to feel heading into this next chapter. Not just how I look, but my energy, strength, confidence, and overall health. This season of my health and wellness journey isn’t about extremes or quick fixes. It’s about showing up consistently and making fitness fit into my real life.

So here’s a realistic look at what that actually looks like right now.

A Sedentary Work-From-Home Reality Check

I work from home, and while I’m grateful for the flexibility, it can be very sedentary. Sitting for hours adds up quickly, especially when life is busy and movement isn’t intentional.

On the first Monday of the year, I decided it was time to commit to getting more steps in and being more mindful about moving my body throughout the day — nothing dramatic, just a conscious reset.

Coming Back After a Workout Break (And the Honest Weigh-In)

I’ll keep it real — I hadn’t worked out consistently for about 4–6 weeks. Life happened, the holidays happened, and workouts took a backseat. Interestingly enough, during that break I hadn’t gained weight and had even lost about two pounds.

But then came the last couple of weeks of the holiday season… and let’s just say the cakes, pies, and festive treats were very present 

When I stepped on the scale, I saw that I had gained about four pounds. Was I disappointed? A little. Was I surprised? Not really. It was a reminder that habits — good or bad — eventually show up.

Instead of spiraling, I took it as information and motivation to get back into my routine.

Treadmill Walks: Simple, Effective, and Sustainable

One of the easiest ways I’m increasing my daily movement is by adding treadmill walks. Nothing fancy, nothing extreme.

Here’s what that looks like:

• 40 minutes

• About 2 km

• Slight incline

• Moderate pace

It’s challenging enough to get my heart rate up, but sustainable enough that I can stay consistent. Walking has become a non-negotiable for me, especially as I focus on long-term health heading into my 40s.

Sauna Time: Recovery Matters Too

After my treadmill session, I spent about 20 minutes in our portable sauna. This has become one of my favorite ways to relax, recover, and mentally unwind.

While sauna time isn’t about burning calories or chasing results, it does help me slow down, release tension, and support recovery — which is just as important as the workout itself.

Evening Weight Training (The No-Excuses Setup)

Most of my weight training happens in the evenings, about 2–3 times per week. Once the day settles, this is when I can really focus and lock in.

I’m incredibly lucky because my husband is a personal trainer, and he converted our garage into a full home gym. No commuting, no waiting for equipment, no excuses — just consistency and convenience.

Strength training has been a big part of my journey as I approach 40. Building muscle, protecting my joints, and feeling strong in my body are all priorities for this next phase of life.

Realistic Fitness Routine at 40: Less Pressure, More Intention

As I get closer to this milestone birthday, my mindset around health and fitness has shifted. I’m not chasing perfection or unrealistic goals. I’m focusing on:

• Consistency over intensity

• Strength over the scale

• Habits I can maintain long-term

This journey is about feeling good, moving well, and showing up for myself — not just now, but for the years ahead.

Watch the Full Vlog on YouTube

If you want to see how all of this looks in real life — the weigh-in, treadmill walk, sauna time, and evening weight training — I shared it all in my latest YouTube vlog.

Watch the full video here: 

If you’re working from home, getting back into fitness after a break, or navigating your own health journey as you approach a big milestone, just know you’re not alone. Progress doesn’t have to be perfect — it just has to be intentional