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10 Fat-Blasting Habits That Keep Chalene Johnson in Her Best Form Ever at 55

Here is everything you need to know about her lifestyle habits.

Leah Groth
By Leah GrothJul 03, 2024
Leah Groth
Writer, Editor, and Content Creator
Leah Groth has decades of experience covering all things health, wellness and fitness related.
See Full Bio
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FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
Chalene_Johnson1
chalenejohnson/Instagram
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothJul 03, 2024
Leah Groth
Writer, Editor, and Content Creator
Leah Groth has decades of experience covering all things health, wellness and fitness related.
See Full Bio
Follow:
FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
Fitness & Workouts

Age shouldn’t be your excuse for not being in shape. Just take it from all the over-50 fitness influencers on social media, who serve as living, breathing proof that you can achieve your health goals at any age. Chalene Johnson, 55, is one of the most inspirational over-50 health and wellness experts. She maintains that at her age, she has “more energy and 💪🏼than I had at 35” in her Instagram bio. “You can feel better than ever in this season, but you have to start NOW!” she says. How does she approach diet, fitness, and self-care? Here is everything you need to know about her lifestyle habits.

Strength Training

Fit mature woman in sportswear lifting a dumbbell during a strength training session at the gymShutterstock

Chalene’s workout of choice? “Strength training is my jam! There’s nothing like feeling strong, empowered, and seeing my body evolve,” she says in a blog post. According to the Mayo Clinic, strength and weight training help reduce body fat, preserve and increase lean muscle mass, and burn calories more efficiently. Strength training may also help you:

  • Develop strong bones
  • Manage your weight
  • Enhance your quality of life
  • Manage chronic conditions
  • Sharpen your thinking skills

Phasing

Group of middle aged women doing abdominal exercise in gym.Shutterstock

When it comes to her strength training workouts, the “secret sauce” behind it all is something called “phasing or periodization,” she says. “Every 4-6 weeks, I shuffle my workout to keep my muscles on their toes—figuratively, of course.”

Here Is Her Workout Breakdown

Shot of athlete woman exercising on assault air bike.Shutterstock

Chalene follows the below workout schedule:

  • Monday: Chest, shoulders, and triceps
  • Tuesday: It’s all about legs
  • Wednesday: Back and biceps
  • Thursday: Plyometric leg day
  • Friday: Again, chest, shoulders, and triceps
  • Saturday: Stretch and cardio
  • Sunday: Another leg day (because why not?)

Core Strength

Fitness determined mature woman lying doing crunches at home. Healthy mid woman doing exercises on gym mat. Concentrate middle age lady doing daily exercises lying on the floor in the living room.Shutterstock

Chalene puts a lot of time into strengthening her abs. “One thing I’m often asked is how I’ve managed to dodge back problems. Simple—I focus on core strength, which includes back muscle development. That means a lot of back extensions and other movements targeting my erector spinae,” she says.

RELATED:I Got Into the Best Shape of My Life at 50 by Following These 6 "Basics"

Steady-State Cardio

Group,,Sporty,Women,,Men,Training,,Exercise,Bikes, class, instructor,trainerShutterstock

“Though I’m a weight-lifting aficionado, I never skimp on cardio,” Chalene says, explaining that she doesn’t overdo it. “No HIIT, just moderate, steady-state cardio for at least 30 minutes on my strength training days.”

Food Tracking

New Delhi, India 4 September 2023:- My fitness pal app on iphone used to calculate caloriesShutterstock

She also makes sure to track her food intake. “Shifting gears to my diet, I keep tabs on what goes into using MyFitnessPal,” Chalene explains. “It’s like my virtual food journal, helping me spot when I need to recalibrate.”

Changing Up Her Eating Plan

Wild Salmon Patty Served with Brussels Sprouts and Mushroom HashShutterstock

“I rotate my eating plans roughly every month and a half. Recently, I sensed that my body was not its vibrant self—hello, inflammation. So, I switched gears and went into what’s known as the ‘target phase,’ where intermittent fasting takes a back seat,” she says. “I aim for a macro split of 35% carbs, 25% fat, and 40% protein. It’s not one-size-fits-all, though—you need to tune these to your body.”

RELATED:20 Superfoods for People Over 50

Here Is What She Eats in an Average Day

fresh chicken breast raw on cutting boardShutterstock

During the target phase, here is what Chalene eats:

  • Breakfast: Egg whites, ground turkey stir fry with veggies, and Ezekiel toast
  • Lunch: Chicken breast, rice (either brown or cauliflower), and greens
  • Dinner: Halibut, again rice, and spinach
  • Snacks: An oatmeal mix and hot turmeric drink

Intermittent Fasting

Intermittent fasting concept with a woman sitting hungry in front of food and looking at her watch to make sure she breaks fast on the correct time. A dietary modification for healthy lifestyle.Shutterstock

As she mentioned above, Chalene practices intermittent fasting. However, she stresses the importance of taking breaks from it. “Women, especially over 40, should know when to take a break from intermittent fasting. Warning signs? Increased body fat, irregular eating cycles, and loss of appetite,” she says.

RELATED:I'm 50+ and These 7 Fat-Blasting Habits Keep Me in the Best Shape of My Life

Walking

Beach travel - woman walking on sand beach leaving footprints in the sand. Closeup detail of female feet and golden sand on Maui, Hawaii, USA.Shutterstock

Chalene makes sure to get her steps in. “Did you know for every 2,000 steps, your risk of heart disease, cancer, and premature death decreases by 10%? Did you know Zone 2 Cardio is one of the absolute best ways to restore your energy?” she recently revealed on Instagram. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss these 20 Superfoods for People Over 50.

proteincardiointermittent fastingworkout routinescarbswalkinghiit

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Fitness & Workouts

10 Fat-Blasting Habits That Keep Chalene Johnson in Her Best Form Ever at 55

Chalene_Johnson1
chalenejohnson/Instagram
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothJul 03, 2024
Leah Groth
Writer, Editor, and Content Creator
Leah Groth has decades of experience covering all things health, wellness and fitness related.
See Full Bio
Follow:
FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
✓Fact-Checked

Our content is fact checked by our senior editorial staff to reflect accuracy and ensure our readers get sound information and advice to make the smartest, healthiest choices.

We adhere to structured guidelines for sourcing information and linking to other resources, including scientific studies and medical journals.

If you have any concerns about the accuracy of our content, please reach out to our editors by e-mailing editors@bodynetwork.com.

Age shouldn’t be your excuse for not being in shape. Just take it from all the over-50 fitness influencers on social media, who serve as living, breathing proof that you can achieve your health goals at any age. Chalene Johnson, 55, is one of the most inspirational over-50 health and wellness experts. She maintains that at her age, she has “more energy and 💪🏼than I had at 35” in her Instagram bio. “You can feel better than ever in this season, but you have to start NOW!” she says. How does she approach diet, fitness, and self-care? Here is everything you need to know about her lifestyle habits.

Strength Training

Fit mature woman in sportswear lifting a dumbbell during a strength training session at the gymShutterstock

Chalene’s workout of choice? “Strength training is my jam! There’s nothing like feeling strong, empowered, and seeing my body evolve,” she says in a blog post. According to the Mayo Clinic, strength and weight training help reduce body fat, preserve and increase lean muscle mass, and burn calories more efficiently. Strength training may also help you:

  • Develop strong bones
  • Manage your weight
  • Enhance your quality of life
  • Manage chronic conditions
  • Sharpen your thinking skills

Phasing

Group of middle aged women doing abdominal exercise in gym.Shutterstock

When it comes to her strength training workouts, the “secret sauce” behind it all is something called “phasing or periodization,” she says. “Every 4-6 weeks, I shuffle my workout to keep my muscles on their toes—figuratively, of course.”

Here Is Her Workout Breakdown

Shot of athlete woman exercising on assault air bike.Shutterstock

Chalene follows the below workout schedule:

  • Monday: Chest, shoulders, and triceps
  • Tuesday: It’s all about legs
  • Wednesday: Back and biceps
  • Thursday: Plyometric leg day
  • Friday: Again, chest, shoulders, and triceps
  • Saturday: Stretch and cardio
  • Sunday: Another leg day (because why not?)

Core Strength

Fitness determined mature woman lying doing crunches at home. Healthy mid woman doing exercises on gym mat. Concentrate middle age lady doing daily exercises lying on the floor in the living room.Shutterstock

Chalene puts a lot of time into strengthening her abs. “One thing I’m often asked is how I’ve managed to dodge back problems. Simple—I focus on core strength, which includes back muscle development. That means a lot of back extensions and other movements targeting my erector spinae,” she says.

RELATED:I Got Into the Best Shape of My Life at 50 by Following These 6 "Basics"

Steady-State Cardio

Group,,Sporty,Women,,Men,Training,,Exercise,Bikes, class, instructor,trainerShutterstock

“Though I’m a weight-lifting aficionado, I never skimp on cardio,” Chalene says, explaining that she doesn’t overdo it. “No HIIT, just moderate, steady-state cardio for at least 30 minutes on my strength training days.”

Food Tracking

New Delhi, India 4 September 2023:- My fitness pal app on iphone used to calculate caloriesShutterstock

She also makes sure to track her food intake. “Shifting gears to my diet, I keep tabs on what goes into using MyFitnessPal,” Chalene explains. “It’s like my virtual food journal, helping me spot when I need to recalibrate.”

Changing Up Her Eating Plan

Wild Salmon Patty Served with Brussels Sprouts and Mushroom HashShutterstock

“I rotate my eating plans roughly every month and a half. Recently, I sensed that my body was not its vibrant self—hello, inflammation. So, I switched gears and went into what’s known as the ‘target phase,’ where intermittent fasting takes a back seat,” she says. “I aim for a macro split of 35% carbs, 25% fat, and 40% protein. It’s not one-size-fits-all, though—you need to tune these to your body.”

RELATED:20 Superfoods for People Over 50

Here Is What She Eats in an Average Day

fresh chicken breast raw on cutting boardShutterstock

During the target phase, here is what Chalene eats:

  • Breakfast: Egg whites, ground turkey stir fry with veggies, and Ezekiel toast
  • Lunch: Chicken breast, rice (either brown or cauliflower), and greens
  • Dinner: Halibut, again rice, and spinach
  • Snacks: An oatmeal mix and hot turmeric drink

Intermittent Fasting

Intermittent fasting concept with a woman sitting hungry in front of food and looking at her watch to make sure she breaks fast on the correct time. A dietary modification for healthy lifestyle.Shutterstock

As she mentioned above, Chalene practices intermittent fasting. However, she stresses the importance of taking breaks from it. “Women, especially over 40, should know when to take a break from intermittent fasting. Warning signs? Increased body fat, irregular eating cycles, and loss of appetite,” she says.

RELATED:I'm 50+ and These 7 Fat-Blasting Habits Keep Me in the Best Shape of My Life

Walking

Beach travel - woman walking on sand beach leaving footprints in the sand. Closeup detail of female feet and golden sand on Maui, Hawaii, USA.Shutterstock

Chalene makes sure to get her steps in. “Did you know for every 2,000 steps, your risk of heart disease, cancer, and premature death decreases by 10%? Did you know Zone 2 Cardio is one of the absolute best ways to restore your energy?” she recently revealed on Instagram. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss these 20 Superfoods for People Over 50.

Fitness & Workouts

5 Habits That Put Her in the Best Shape After 65

Ilene Block silverandstrong
Copyright silverandstrong/Instagram
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothFeb 16, 2025
Leah Groth
Writer, Editor, and Content Creator
Leah Groth has decades of experience covering all things health, wellness and fitness related.
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Don’t let age be the excuse that keeps you from losing weight. Ilene Block is the founder of Silver and Strong, a coaching company that specializes in helping women over 50 get into the best shape of their lives. She lost 40 pounds at 61 (and 55 pounds altogether) by making a few simple changes to her routine. In a new post, she reveals exactly what she does to look and feel so great at her age: “5 reasons I look fitter than most people at 65,” she writes.

“It’s not good genes or luck or some ‘secret formula’ - it’s daily habits that keep me looking fit, strong, healthy and youthful,” she writes in the post. “The best news? You can adopt these habits and live your best life at any age!” She then reveals precisely what she does.

She Eats Lots of Protein

The first thing she does is eat a protein-rich diet every day. “I spent decades yo-yo dieting and eating as little as possible to be skinny. I learned at 61 the power of macro based nutrition and now eat to fuel my body to be fit, strong and healthy,” she says.

RELATED:20 Superfoods for People Over 50

She Hydrates

Next, she drinks 100 ounces of water daily. “Drinking plenty of water daily is essential for hydration, digestion, joint lubrication, and muscle function, especially for women over 50 who are active,” she says.

She Walks 8,000 Steps Per Day

She also gets her steps in — 8,000 to be exact. “Walking supports heart health, improves mobility, and helps maintain a healthy metabolism. It strengthens bones, and enhances mood, making it an effective and accessible way to stay active and independent,” she writes

She Lifts Heavy Weights

She also lifts heavy weights five days a week. “Lifting weights builds and maintains muscle mass, improves bone density, and boosts metabolism, which is key for longevity and independence,” she says.

RELATED:I Got Into the Best Shape of My Life at 50 by Following These 6 "Basics"

She Keeps Her Mind Engaged and Challenged

Another habit: Keeping her mind engaged and challenged. “Keeping your mind active improves cognitive function, reduces the risk of dementia, enhances memory, and supports overall mental well-being for a sharper, more fulfilling life,” she says.

Here’s How to Approach Changes

“You can make these changes at any age,” she continues. “Pick one place to start and remember these mantras.” The first is “consistency, not perfection,” followed by “discipline, not motivation,” and finally, “comparison is the thief of joy.” And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss I Hit 60 and These 15 Anti-Aging Foods Keep Me Fit and Feeling 20 Years Younger.

Fitness & Workouts

Fitness Trainer Reveals 10 Fat Burning Habits Over 50

Christine Roderick corexchristine
Copyright corexchristine/Instagram
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothJan 19, 2025
Leah Groth
Writer, Editor, and Content Creator
Leah Groth has decades of experience covering all things health, wellness and fitness related.
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Are you letting your age be an excuse for not getting into shape? One 57-year-old expert who looks half her age has some recommendations to help you burn fat and achieve your best body. Christine Roderick is an “age positive” fitness trainer who helps “women over 40 transform their body, mind & spirits.” In a new social media post, she shows off her flat abs and reveals all her healthy daily habits that help her achieve her fantastic figure. “What I do for maximum fat burning at 57,” she writes. “Use this template for a week, 2 weeks or a month to get results,” she adds, sharing “what a typical day looks like” in her life.

Intermittent Fasting

Her first habit is intermittent fasting. “Fast 12-13 hours,” she recommends. Intermittent fasting prolongs “the period when your body has burned through the calories consumed during your last meal and begins burning fat,” explains Johns Hopkins Medicine.

Hydration

Christine wakes up at 6:15 a.m. The first thing she does is hydrate. According to the Mayo Clinic, hydration is essential for various reasons. Water helps eliminate waste through urination, perspiration, and bowel movements, keeps your temperature regular, lubricates and cushions joints, and helps protect sensitive tissues.

Coffee

Christina drinks a “loaded” coffee latte at 7:00 a.m. She adds @cymbiotika nootropic creamer and one scoop of collagen. According to the Cleveland Clinic, drinking coffee in moderation has several benefits. “It acts on your brain to improve memory, mood, reaction times, and mental function,” they say, citing a study finding that caffeine can improve endurance and performance during exercise. It is also antioxidant-rich, can ward off diabetes, prevent neurologic disease, lower cancer risk, and ward off depression, they point out.

Protein Before Workout

At 8:00 a.m., she hits the gym for a challenging strength training workout “with about 15 grams of protein as fuel & water with. @kion aminos,” she reveals. According to clinical trials, consuming more protein than the recommended dietary allowance not only reduces body weight (BW), but also enhances body composition by decreasing fat mass while preserving fat-free mass (FFM) in both low-calorie and standard-calorie diets.

Here Is What She Eats in a Day

For breakfast, Christine consumes 30 to 49 grams of protein, healthy fats, and carbs. She might eat eggs, lean meat, avocado, and whole grain toast or have a protein shake with prebiotic powder. Lunch is her largest meal of the day, “lean protein, bit more complex crabs & veggies ( i.e. salmon, leafy green salad & brown rice )” she writes. At 3 she will have a snack, 20 grams of protein in the form of cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, or hummus with veggies or seed cracker. Dinner might be lean meat, grilled veggies, and salad. “I tend to skip a lot of carbs at night but if I do do it it’s usually quinoa or a whole grain,” she says. For dessert, she will have “chocolate something!” she says. In total she aims for 120 grams of protein.

Stretching or Yoga

She also does stretch or yoga in the afternoon “to work on mobility & flexibility,” she says. “Stretching keeps the muscles flexible, strong, and healthy, and we need that flexibility to maintain a range of motion in the joints,” says Harvard Health. “Without it, the muscles shorten and become tight. Then, when you call on the muscles for activity, they are weak and unable to extend all the way. That puts you at risk for joint pain, strains, and muscle damage.”

Walking

Christine gets her steps in. She explains that she is “trying to incorporate the 15-20 minute walk after dinner at a 50% so far lol but really want this in my life,” she writes. Going for a daily walk can be a game changer, especially at a brisk speed. One study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that walking at a brisk pace for about 30 minutes a day reduced the risk of heart disease, cancer, dementia, and death, compared with walking a similar number of steps but at a slower pace.

Tea Before Bed

She also avoids eating 2 to 3 hours before bed, “just a habit I made myself get consistent with,” she says. “I drink tea or sugar free cacao if I need something.” Numerous studies have shown that various teas may boost your immune system, fight inflammation, and even ward off cancer and heart disease.

Supplements

Christine takes supplements throughout the day:

Morning supplements: @fatty15, @seed probiotics @joiwomenswellness NAD, glutathione, C & methylated vitamin B 12

Afternoon supplements: @modere_us collagen & Trim ( Cla) @cymbiotika D3K2 @udeawellness the hair pill & omega 3 supplement

Evening supplements: Magnesium threonate & citrate for calm & progesterone

Sleep

Lastly, she prioritizes sleep. “In bed by 10 hopefully!!!!” she writes. According to the Sleep Foundation, getting enough z’s is a mood booster, promotes heart health, regulates blood sugar, improves mental function, restores your immune system, helps relieve stress, and aids in weight loss. And if you enjoyed this article, don't missI Hit 60 and These 15 Anti-Aging Foods Keep Me Fit and Feeling 20 Years Younger.

Fitness & Workouts

61-Year-Old Lisa Rinna Shares 10 Daily Habits That Keep Her Looking Half Her Age

celebrity, actress,,Lisa,Rinna,At,The,80
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Leah Groth
By Leah GrothDec 18, 2024
Leah Groth
Writer, Editor, and Content Creator
Leah Groth has decades of experience covering all things health, wellness and fitness related.
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This content references scientific studies and academic research, and is fact-checked to ensure accuracy.

Our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians strives to be objective, unbiased, and honest.

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Lisa Rinna is steaming up the internet with her latest sizzling hot throwback snap. The 61-year-old Real Housewives of Beverly Hills alum shared a provocative photo on her social media this week, eliciting a major response from her followers. “@gregswalesart you are a master I forget just how great I looked,” she captioned the photo of her flawless figure. “Flawless appeal,” commented one. “Age-defying beauty,” added another. How does the star look better than most people half her age? Here are ten things the Body Network knows about Lisa Rinna’s approach to diet and exercise.

She’s Lived in “Moderation”

“I’ve been really fortunate to get to 60 and be healthy, knock on wood,” Rinna told Cosmo in January 2024. “I keep a very moderate lifestyle. I’ve worked out since I was 16 years old. I live in moderation, even though it seems like I live very loudly and largely. I get my rest. I eat mostly healthy. I’m moderate. I don’t go crazy with anything. So there’s no silver bullet. There’s nothing that I’m super challenged with.”

She Has Good Genes

Lisa admits that genetics have played a role in her longevity. “I’ve been very lucky with my health. My body maintains itself pretty well at this age,” she added to Cosmo. “People are like, ‘How the heck do you do that?’ Genetics. I have a good base of genetics and I got lucky with that. So it’s not that hard for me. And I still look good, so that’s fun, easy, nice. I enjoy it. I present it the way I want to. And when I can’t do that anymore, I won’t.”

She’s “Aging Disgracefully”

Lisa has stopped caring about other people’s opinions. “I just don’t care about what people think about me, and that has been a tremendous gift that I have learned,” she said. “I’ve gotten to that place where at 60, I am so much more confident than I was at 30,” she continued. “I love this age because I’m freer and more confident and more passionate than I’ve ever been ... there’s this whole thing about aging gracefully, and I’m like, ‘I’m going to age disgracefully.’”

RELATED:She Lost 49 Pounds at 43 Without Dieting, Here Are 10 Foods She Buys to Keep It Off

She Is a Believer in Hormone Replacement Therapy

Lisa is a fan of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) to treat menopause symptoms. “Everything you can go through, I was going through it. I couldn’t sleep, the hot flashes, everything, and I was anxious and angry and just a mess,” she said about her experience with menopause. “If I’m going to have a better life by taking [hormones], I’m going to do it. If you took my hormones away, I would kill you, probably. I really think they’re helpful in so many ways.”

She Accepts that Aging Is Inevitable

Lisa has accepted that she is getting older. “I think it is about passion. You can’t fight aging. Aging is going to happen. How do I do it so that I feel good and I’m happy? That’s what I’m looking for, and I’m still passionate, and I’m still curious about life,” she told Cosmo. “I don’t necessarily need to look like I’m 20 years old, though that’s fun if you can get it. But you know what I’m saying? It’s about how do you morph yourself into this era and still feel good, be curious, be passionate, and be happy?”

Jazzercise

Lisa has been dancing her way to a hot body since she was a teen. “I’ve had the same fitness routine since I was 16,” she told Us Weekly. “It started with Jazzercise, and I’ve been consistent about working out ever since.”

RELATED:10 Micro Habits Made Her Lose 20 Pounds While Being a “Busy Worker Mom"

Yoga

She also gets her zen on. “Yoga has been my life savior for 26 years I’ve been practicing now,” she added to Us. “It’s my consistent … you know, I do many workouts and I go through lots of different things, but I think most consistently practicing yoga has been the most helpful in keeping myself grounded and somewhat space … somewhat…”

She Follows a “Dirty Vegan” Diet

While Lisa eats some animal products, she tries to fill her plate with plant-based foods and produce. “I tend to call myself a dirty vegan," she told People. “I’m mostly plant-based—but if I do need to eat some meat, I’ll have it.”

Exercise Makes Her Feel Better

Lisa tries to focus on how exercise makes her feel, instead of just her looks. “I’m always doing something. I just do because I feel better,” Lisa told OWN. “If I feel better, I’m nicer. If I’m nicer, my life goes better.”

RELATED:3 Core Exercises You Need to Do to Tighten Your Abs, According to a Fitness Trainer

She Mixes Up Workouts

"My one piece of advice though is finding more than one form of exercise that you love to do and then mixing it up," Lisa explained on her website. "One day do the Pilates, and then the next day you play tennis. Maybe you can even incorporate a Friday night salsa dancing class with your girlfriends!" And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Fitness & Workouts

I'm 70 but Look 40 After Sculpting My Body with 2 Unexpected Exercises

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Liz Hilliard
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothOct 15, 2024
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Writer, Editor, and Content Creator
Leah Groth has decades of experience covering all things health, wellness and fitness related.
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FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
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Liz Hilliard, 70, is living, breathing proof that age is just a number. The pilates instructor, who trains out of her studio Hilliard Studio Method, discovered the workout when she was 48, and completely transformed her approach to health. Over the years she has managed to learn a few things about longevity, revealing her secrets in an interview with Body Network.

Liz Used to Rely on Traditional Workouts

Liz HilliardLiz Hilliard

Liz, who lives in Charlotte, North Carolina, explains that she was athletic throughout her childhood and enjoyed playing basketball and other team sports. “Traditional workouts always felt boring and offered minimal results for the time and energy put into them, " she says. Until I was in my late 40s, I relied on tennis and walking as my main sources of exercise.

RELATED: I'm a Personal Trainer and These 5 Moves Banished My Clients' Bat Wings in Weeks

She Discovered Pilates at Age 48

Liz HilliardLiz Hilliard

“At age 48, I attended my first Pilates class and immediately felt incredibly challenged. I even had fun, which led me to become certified in Pilates,” she says. In 2002, she opened her first personal Pilates training studio. “It was a successful business, and my clients were seeing real results. However, at age 51, while going through menopause, I noticed despite my Pilates workout, my belly fat was increasing, and my overall strength was decreasing as well, aka flabby arms and sagging bottom."

Fusing Strength Training with Pilates Was a Game-Changer

Liz HilliardLiz Hilliard

"Inspired by my daughter, who was getting married and sculpting up for her wedding, I began researching heavy resistance training and hired my own personal trainer to try to sculpt my 51-year-old, menopausal body. We implemented heavy weight training, and I was determined to debunk the ‘bulking’ myth that most women feel about weightlifting," Liz says.

"The short story is that adding heavier resistance training to my core-centric Pilates workout began to sculpt my body in ways I hadn’t seen before using only traditional Pilates. That’s when I devised my Method. By incorporating heavy resistance with the core-centric exercises of Pilates, the Hilliard Studio Method was born."

She Shaved Inches Off Her Waistline

Slim young woman measuring her thin waist with a tape measure, close upShutterstock

Hillard, who has since authored the book "Be Powerful: Find Your Strength at Any Age" and co-hosts the Be Powerful Podcast, has remained 135 pounds throughout most of her life. “Muscle weighs more than fat, so I was replacing adipose tissue with muscle. My body was sculpting and changing at a rapid rate, especially given that I was in the throes of menopause. I lost inches around my waist, my arms became strong and sculpted, my abs flattened, and my glutes lifted. My entire body changed over the course of a year or less,” she says.

She Works Out 4 to 5 Times a Week

Liz HilliardLiz Hilliard

What are the most important things she learned about getting in shape? “Find a workout that you enjoy, or you won’t stick with it. Our lives are busy, so finding a workout that efficiently provides resistance combined with stretch and enough cardio is essential. I do my workout at Hilliard Studio Method 4 to 5 times a week because we change the workout daily, moving through compound exercising and utilizing different resistance tools like balls, gliders, and bands to continuously cause muscle confusion and avoid the dreadful plateau, both mentally and physically. We keep the work fun and evolving, low impact yet high intensity. The amazing side effect of getting in physical shape is that one’s mental and emotional outlook becomes far more positive. Strength training like I do at HSM is the fountain of youth,” she continues.

RELATED: This Woman Gave Up Processed Sugar and Got Into the Best Shape of Her Life at 54 By Doing These 4 Things

Get Your Steps In

Liz HilliardLiz Hilliard

Her top workout suggestions? “Walk every day and everywhere. Get outside as often as possible to walk in nature. Bonus points if you walk with a friend. It’s built-in mental and physical therapy, which will not only help keep you fit but also lift your mood and keep your mind creative,” she says.

Strength Train Four Times a Week

Liz HilliardLiz Hilliard

Also, strength training 4 times per week. “Strength training is an absolute requirement for healthy aging and simply means load-bearing exercises that require your muscles to engage. This can include anything from hand weights, resistance bands, weighted balls or any weighted object that taxes and builds skeletal muscles. Skeletal muscle strength allows the body to burn calories and maintain a healthy weight while setting the body up for success when inevitable accidents happen, so you are far less likely to avoid falling and breaking bones,” she says.

It’s Never Too Late to Get in Shape

Liz HilliardLiz Hilliard

What is her message for women out there who are struggling to get in shape? “It’s never too late, and you’re never too old or out of shape to start exercising. By simply getting out of your chair and going for a 20-minute walk, you’ll have the immediate feedback of feeling better physically, mentally, and emotionally,” she says.

Make Exercise Social

Liz HilliardLiz Hilliard

She also recommends connecting with friends to walk, workout, “and just talk every day,” she says. “Walking and talking with a friend or acquaintance is the perfect combo for both physical and mental health! Add resistance training to your workout, which can be as simple as a plank for as long as you can hold it until you work for up to a minute. Then go for 2 minutes or more. This is resistance training and incredible for your core and overall fitness! Then add a pushup on your knees, which is basically a moving plank that strengthens your arms, back, and core, not to mention flattens your abs. Do as many as you can, and try to work up to 20 or more. Mostly, just keep moving every single day. Our bodies are designed to move. The fastest way to early aging is to stop moving. The move it or lose it cliché is true.”

RELATED: I Help Women Over 35 Lose Weight: 9 Eating Errors You Must Stop Today

Try the Hilliard Studio Method at Home

Athletic woman in stylish sportswear doing lunges exercises at home in bedroom.Shutterstock

She says she “takes working out to the next level to produce results that are nothing short of a total mind-body transformation for women and men of all ages and stages,” she says. “Hilliard Studio Method group classes are designed to be taken on a regular basis. Each class is different from the day before. Our energetic and encouraging trainers utilize a variety of powerful movements and workout tools in a high intensity, low impact method driven by empowering, beat-driven music; think personal training in a group setting.” Her classes can also be done virtually via an online streaming platform and live Zoom classes. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 20 Superfoods for People Over 50.

Nutrition & Diet

She Lost 70 Lbs: 5 Things She Wishes She Knew

Nikki Madoch Nikki Gets Fit
I Lost 70 Pounds and Beat Binge Eating With These 6 Steps
Copyright nikkigets_fit/Instagram
Christopher Roback
By Christopher RobackApr 01, 2025
Christopher Roback
Professional Health, Science Editor and Writer
Christopher Roback is an experienced news journalist specializing in political, science, and crime news.
See Full Bio
✓Evidence-Based

This content references scientific studies and academic research, and is fact-checked to ensure accuracy.

Our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians strives to be objective, unbiased, and honest.

We are committed to bringing you researched, expert-driven content to help you make more informed decisions around food, health, and wellness. We know how important making choices about your overall health is, and we strive to provide you with the best information possible.

Starting a weight loss journey can feel overwhelming and intimidating. We often focus on the wrong things and set ourselves up for disappointment. Nikki Madoch (@NikkiGetsFit) knows this all too well. As a self-described "nutrition athlete" with ASM CPT and CNC certifications, Nikki has shared her experience losing an impressive 70 pounds on the Weight Watchers program. Her insights might just be the perspective shift you need to make your own journey more successful and sustainable.

The Right Motivation Makes All the Difference

Most people start losing weight to look better, but that's rarely enough to stick with it long-term. "For so long, I just wanted to look better, have a flat stomach, and look like other people. That was all it was," Nikki admits in her post. She found out that feeling better physically became what truly kept her going, not how she looked, which completely changed her approach and results.

RELATED:8 High-Protein Foods with Nearly Zero Calories That Melt Fat

Health Benefits Show Up Quickly

The physical improvements from healthier eating can pop up much faster than you might think. "After just one week, I could not believe how much better I felt," Nikki says. She noticed huge differences in her energy and overall well-being after cutting out fast food and focusing on portion control and foods that actually nourished her body.

Feeling Good Trumps Looking Good

Lasting weight loss comes from caring more about how your body feels than how it looks. "What keeps me going is how good I feel when I take care of myself, eat healthy, nourish myself, drink enough water, get enough sleep, and exercise," Nikki points out. While looking better in clothes feels nice, it's the improved quality of life that really drives her to keep making healthy choices.

Body Image Issues Can Actually Increase

Surprisingly, losing weight doesn't magically fix body image issues and might even create new ones. "I didn't know that I would have more body dysmorphia as I lost weight," Nikki confesses. She caught herself becoming more critical and self-conscious about specific body parts during her journey than she had been at her heaviest weight.

RELATED:20 Foods You Didn’t Know Were Ultra-Processed

The Mental Game Gets Tougher

Weight loss demands as much mental strength as physical discipline, especially as you make progress. "It was a whole new mental game that I had to work through," Nikki says about dealing with increased body scrutiny. Learning to shift her focus back to health and strength rather than picking apart her physical imperfections became crucial for her continued success.

Don't Be Afraid to Use All Your Resources

If you're following a structured program, take full advantage of all the flexibility it offers. "I was too scared to use my weeklies," Nikki talks about her initial approach to Weight Watchers points. She later discovered that using all her allotted weekly points actually helped her lose more weight rather than slowing her down.

Strategic Indulgence Works Best

How you use extra calories or points matters more than whether you use them. "What worked best for me was using my weeklies on different snacks that I like—protein bars, nuts, peanut butter spread," Nikki shares. She found that spreading out enjoyable foods throughout the week worked better than saving everything for one big cheat meal.

RELATED:I'm a Nutritionist and These are the Best Banana Recipes For Weight Loss

Variety Prevents Burnout

Eating the same healthy foods over and over leads to boredom and eventually giving up. "It is very easy to get burned out of things, and it's very important to switch things up," Nikki warns. She learned to keep introducing new recipes, ingredients, and meal ideas to keep her plan interesting and something she could stick with.

Try One New Thing Weekly

Small changes make a big difference in keeping meals from getting boring. "Just trying to add a new recipe each week, just a simple recipe, so that I'm trying something new," Nikki suggests. This approach keeps meals exciting without becoming overwhelming or taking too much time.

The Scale Doesn't Tell the Whole Story

Weight is just one measurement and often a misleading one, especially when building muscle. "Weight and the number on the scale is not everything," Nikki insists. She weighs 190 pounds at 6 feet tall and feels healthier now than when she weighed less but had less muscle.

RELATED:What Happens When You Quit Soda, According to a Nutritionist

Progress Photos Tell a Better Story

Visual proof of body changes can be more motivating than scale numbers. "I'm actually really happy that I did start taking progress pictures from the start," Nikki mentions. These photos helped her see that she looked smaller at a higher weight due to muscle gain, proving that the scale wasn't telling her the full story of her success.

Embrace Multiple Ways to Measure Success

Relying only on weight can lead to frustration, especially during plateaus. "Having different ways to not focus so much on the scale to see your progress is so important," Nikki talks about. She figured out how to judge her progress through how clothes fit, strength gains, and overall wellbeing rather than obsessing over a specific number.

Final Word

Nikki's journey shows that lasting weight loss comes from focusing on health, enjoyment, and sustainable habits rather than just appearance or numbers on a scale. By shifting your perspective on motivation, measurements, and what truly matters, you can create a healthier relationship with food and your body that lasts far beyond reaching your goal weight. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Fitness & Workouts

Lose 20 Pounds in 90 Days With Expert Methods

Mateo Ruperti lifting_with_mateo
Copyright lifting_with_mateo/Instagram
Leah Suzanne
By Leah SuzanneApr 01, 2025
Leah Suzanne
Freelance Writer/Editor
See Full Bio
✓Evidence-Based

This content references scientific studies and academic research, and is fact-checked to ensure accuracy.

Our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians strives to be objective, unbiased, and honest.

We are committed to bringing you researched, expert-driven content to help you make more informed decisions around food, health, and wellness. We know how important making choices about your overall health is, and we strive to provide you with the best information possible.

Are you frustrated with all the one-size-fits-all fat loss methods that don’t seem to work for you? One expert claims there are a handful of easy and effective methods you can choose from to lose weight. Mateo Ruperti is a fat loss coach who uses his LWM Blueprint to help “busy people lose 20 lbs in 90 days.” In a new post, he reveals five methods that you can use to drop weight fast. “How to lose body fat in 3 months,” he writes.

Method 1

His first method involves a lot of coffee and water. “Drink a lot of water, so your tummy will be filled with water and you won’t have urges to eat,” he says. Drink black coffee: Caffeine will give you energy and will manipulate your brain into thinking you are not hungry. Use this when having cravings.”

RELATED:8 High-Protein Foods with Nearly Zero Calories That Melt Fat

Method 2

The second method involves exercise and a calorie deficit. “Be in a slight calorie deficit of 200-300 calories. Use high dense food to make you feel like you are full without eating so many calories,” he says. Also, do cardio. “Walk about 10,000 to 15,000 steps everyday. Walking is the best form of cardio to burn calories.” A 2018 study published in the journal Obesity found a link between walking 10,000 steps a day and weight loss and weight management. Other studies published by the Journal of American Medical Association (JAMA) in JAMA Neurology and in JAMA Internal Medicine also linked walking 10,000 steps a day to less dementia and less cardiovascular disease overall, with less heart disease, less heart failure, and fewer strokes.

Method 3

The third method is following the 30-30-30 Rule. “Do 30 minutes of cardio after 30 minutes of waking up and then eat 30 grams of protein. This is one the fastest ways to burn fat!” he claims.

RELATED:20 Foods You Didn’t Know Were Ultra-Processed

Method 4

His final method? “Eat foods that are rich in protein,” he says, revealing the following recommendations:

  • Egg whites
  • Chicken
  • Beef
  • Broccoli.

RELATED:I'm a Nutritionist and These are the Best Banana Recipes For Weight Loss

Bonus Tips

He also offers some bonus tips

  • Stop drinking ALCOHOL
  • No soda, Starbucks etc.
  • Count your calories precisely for at least 6 days a week.
  • Sleep 7-8 hours a day for better rest and recovery.

And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week

Nutrition & Diet

8 Best Costco Foods for Losing Weight Shoppers Just Discovered

HAMILTON, CANADA - JUNE 29, 2017 Costco Wholesale storefront in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. Costco operates a chain of membership warehouses, carrying merchandise at lower prices.
Shutterstock
Leah Suzanne
By Leah SuzanneApr 01, 2025
Leah Suzanne
Freelance Writer/Editor
See Full Bio
✓Evidence-Based

This content references scientific studies and academic research, and is fact-checked to ensure accuracy.

Our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians strives to be objective, unbiased, and honest.

We are committed to bringing you researched, expert-driven content to help you make more informed decisions around food, health, and wellness. We know how important making choices about your overall health is, and we strive to provide you with the best information possible.

Costco is known for selling some of the most delicious but calorie-heavy items, including pizza dripping with cheese and toppings, substantial hot dogs, and larger-than-life muffins. However, it is also an excellent resource for anyone on a diet or trying to lose weight. Health experts, trainers, and influencers share their go-to weight loss finds at the warehouse daily. Here are the 8 best Costco foods for losing weight that shoppers just discovered.

Wild Caught Salmon

,Salmon,Fish,Fillets, protein, food, dinner​Amp Up Your Protein IntakeShutterstock

Tara Collingwood, MS, RDN, CSSD, LD/N, ACSM-CPT, a Board Certified Sports Dietitian and co-author of the Flat Belly Cookbook for Dummies, recommends stocking up on wild-caught salmon, either frozen or fresh, at Costco. “Wild-caught salmon is rich in Omega-3s for heart and brain health,” she told our sister site, Eat This, Not That!. “These healthy fats are essential as we age, helping to reduce inflammation and support cognitive function. Costco offers a variety of wild-caught salmon options that can be baked, grilled, or pan-seared for easy, nutritious meals.”

RELATED:20 Foods You Didn’t Know Were Ultra-Processed

Fairlife Nutrition Plan Chocolate Protein Shake

container,Fairlife, milk,grocery, store.food,shopping,supermarket​Fairlife: The High-Protein Milk Game-ChangerShutterstock

I, and lots of influencers and fitness pros, are obsessed with Fairlife Nutrition Plan Chocolate Protein Shakes. TikToker Ali Olson, who has lost 105 pounds, recently shared a post showing the protein-packed milk in a video detailing her daily diet. Collingwood is also a big fan of Fairlife milk products. “It is delicious and also has a higher protein content than ‘regular’ milk due to how they process the milk,” she says. “It is good for post-workout, on your cereal, in a smoothie, or just a glass with dinner.”

Organic Meat

Medium,Rare,Ribeye,Steak,,Herbs,Grass,Fed, Beefed,meat​Grass-Fed Beef: The Satisfaction SolutionShutterstock

Costco is an excellent resource for organic meat. “Would I rather eat grass-fed, organic meat all the time? Sure, but I’m not a gazillionaire. That’s why I tend to stock up on beef (usually steaks and chuck roast) as well as chicken (organic if I can find it) while I’m there,” writesRuth Soukup, a midlife health and mindset coach, in an Instagram post.

Kevin’s Natural Foods Cilantro Lime Chicken

Holly Hillyer lost 45 pounds and swears that Kevin’s Natural Foods Cilantro Lime Chicken is a must-buy. “Throw this over a bed of cauliflower rice for a quick meal,” she suggests about the paleo-friendly and ultra-clean meals that are easy to prepare and found in the refrigerator section of the warehouse.

RELATED:I'm a Nutritionist and These are the Best Banana Recipes For Weight Loss

Yasso Cookies n’ Cream Greek Yogurt Bars

Yasso Greek Yogurt Bars are a dessert that offers some health benefits. My daughter prefers Yasso Cookies n’ Cream Greek Yogurt Bars over traditional ice cream bars – and they cost a fraction of the price compared to Whole Foods or Target. Each bar is just 90 calories and offers 5 grams of protein.

Poppi Prebiotic Soda

IRVINE, CALIFORNIA - 6 SEPT 2024: Three cans of Poppi Prebiotic Soda on a bed of ice.

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There’s a reason Pepsi purchased Poppi Prebiotic Soda for nearly 2 billion dollars. The soda isn’t just delicious, the apple cider vinegar and gut-boosting beverage offers health benefits, including improved digestion. I always pick up a box of these on a trip to the warehouse.

Mush Overnight Oats

Los Angeles, California, United States - 08-16-2023: A view of a hand holding a package of Mush Oats, on display at a local grocery store.

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Don’t have time to make overnight oats from scratch? Keep a box of Mush Overnight Oats in your fridge. The individually packaged and portioned overnight oats are great for a quick but nutritious breakfast.

RELATED:What Happens When You Quit Soda, According to a Nutritionist

Tru Grill Grilled Chicken Strips

Grilled or roasted chicken breast, whole and sliced on a wooden serving plate​Greek Chicken BowlShutterstock

Keep pre-cooked, lean proteins on hand for easy and nutritious dinners that will fill you up. Hillyer also recommends Tru Grill precooked Grilled Chicken Strips. “Heat and top a salad for an easy protein with dinner. My kids also love these just dipped in ketchup,” she says. And if you enjoyed this article, don't missthese 8 High-Protein Foods with Nearly Zero Calories That Melt Fat.

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