The Science of Exercise for Women 40+: What to Prioritise (And What to Ignore) | Dr Lauren Colenso-Semple and Dr Alyssa Olenick

Exercise for women in their 40s, 50s, and 60s is explored, addressing the confusion and loss of confidence many women experience despite their efforts. The discussion highlights the importance of resistance training for maintaining muscle mass, physical function, and long-term health, while cautioning against using exercise solely for fat loss. Exercise physiologists Dr. Alyssa Olenick and Dr. Lauren Colenso-Semple emphasize setting performance-based goals, such as maintaining the physical capacity to do activities they enjoy, rather than fixating on metrics like DEXA scans. They stress the need for women to challenge societal messages around body image, prioritize strength and power, and focus on consistent, challenging, and progressive training. The conversation also covers the role of cardio, the importance of adequate fueling, and the need to build a lifestyle around movement.