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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.

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.

Woman Lifted Weights 5 Days a Week for 30 Days and Doubled Her Strength

Transform your body and mindset in just 30 days

Makari Espe

Have you ever hit that point where your workouts just feel like going through the motions? That's exactly where Makari Espe found herself. As a fitness enthusiast with 140,000 YouTube subscribers, she was stuck in a comfortable but unchallenging routine – just lifting weights twice a week for 20 minutes. "I want to be harder, better, faster, and stronger," Makari says, deciding to shake things up by lifting five times a week instead. Could just a few extra gym sessions actually make a real difference? That's what she wanted to find out. And honestly, if you've been feeling stuck in your own fitness journey, her results might be exactly the motivation you need.


The Challenge Setup

Before diving into her intensified routine, Makari established a baseline to measure her progress. "I did a 1 minute and 30 second plank hold, 1 minute wall sit, 2 chin-ups, 10 push-ups, and 25 shoulder presses with 10 pound weights," she shares. This initial test wasn't without emotional hurdles. "The last time I did a test like this, I was about 19, and I did a lot better then. So at this moment right here, I'm currently comparing myself to how strong I was as a teenager," Makari admits.

RELATED:Tone Sagging Arms in 2 Weeks With These 5 Exercises

Week 1: Building the Foundation

Makari's new routine followed a strategic split to maximize results while preventing burnout. "The idea is to do two big muscle groups per workout so that each muscle group is rested by the time you work it out again, and we're not all out here hating our lives," she explains. Her weekly schedule included:

  • Day 1: Back and biceps
  • Day 2: Legs and shoulders
  • Day 3: Rest
  • Day 4: Chest and back
  • Day 5: Legs and core
  • Day 6: Rest
  • Day 7: Chest and triceps.

Adjusting to Longer Sessions

Young fitness woman looking at her smart watch while taking a break from outdoor workout. Sportwoman checking pulse on fitness smart watch device.Shutterstock

The extended workout time was immediately noticeable. "As someone who is used to doing 20 minute workouts, I'm definitely noticing that extra 10 minutes," Makari points out.

Week 2: Increasing the Intensity

Moving into the second week, Makari transitioned from beginner to intermediate workouts. "The intermediate program is significantly harder than the week 1 program. The positions require way more coordination and core stability, and I'm fitting a lot more reps into this 30-minute time frame," she reveals.

This increased difficulty targeted specific muscle groups more intensely. "My triceps are killing me. More so than any other muscle group this whole challenge so far, my triceps are dead," Makari shares.

RELATED:12-3-30 Walking Method: 20 Proven Tips to Lose Weight Faster

Mental Hurdles

Tired woman having rest after workout. Tired and exhausted female athlete sitting on floor at gym with a water bottle.11 Weight-Loss Secrets Most Experts Won't Tell You, From a Leading Personal TrainerShutterstock

Despite the physical challenges, mental obstacles became apparent. "Morale is a solid 6 out of 10. The 30 minutes are going by way faster than before, so that's good. But I still have to drag myself to the gym, and repeatedly tell myself to trust the process," she admits.

Week 3: Finding the Rhythm

Gym and dumbbell weight training equipment on sport ,Healthy life and gym exercise equipments and sports concept ,copy space​The Workout StrategyShutterstock

By the third week, Makari's body was responding to the consistent training. "I've gone up a weight. My heavy is now 20. It used to be 15," she says proudly.

Recovery became equally important as the workouts themselves. "The swim was amazing for many reasons, but the main one was it was so nice on my sore muscles," Makari explains after incorporating swimming on one of her rest days.

Nutrition Support

salmon steak with fresh herbsA Year of Successful MaintenanceShutterstock

The combination of consistent training and nutrition adjustments began paying dividends. "I changed my diet up a little bit last week. So I'm putting so much more good fuel into my body which is giving me more energy to perform in the gym," she shares.

RELATED:I Got My Best Body After 50 and Here’s How You Can, Too

Finding the Joy

This holistic approach transformed her relationship with exercise. "I've crossed the threshold or I've found the joy in weightlifting again. I'm not just lifting weights to go through the motions and like do it because I know I have to. I'm doing it because I know I can," Makari reflects.

Everyday Energy Boost

Beautiful woman checking her body shape in a mirror.15 Daily Habits to Lose 5-10 Pounds in 30 DaysShutterstock

Makari also noticed improvements in her daily activities. "I feel so much more energetic throughout the day. Tasks that used to tire me out now feel easier," she explains. The increased strength translated to practical benefits beyond aesthetics.

Sleep Improvements

Her sleep quality showed remarkable improvement as well. "I'm falling asleep faster and waking up more refreshed. My body actually craves that deep recovery sleep now," Makari shares. This unexpected benefit reinforced her commitment to the program despite the challenging schedule.

Week 4: The Transformation

Happy young woman stretching before running outdoorsShutterstock

The final week revealed not just physical improvements but mental ones too. "Now that I'm over the hump, I actually feel even stronger than I did as a teenager. This is going to sound really cheesy but it's because not only do I feel physically stronger but I feel stronger in my brain," Makari explains.

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

Time Investment Reality

The time commitment remained significant but worthwhile. "Roughly three and a half hours every week is a lot of free time to be able to put towards working out. But ultimately it makes me feel so much better outside of the gym," she acknowledges.

Stress Management

Hands of a woman playing with nails in stress​Your Body Is Slowing DownShutterstock

Makari noticed significant changes in her stress resilience. "I handle daily challenges with more calm now. Things that would've stressed me out before don't affect me as much," she shares. This mental toughness became one of the most valuable outcomes of her experiment.

Confidence Beyond the Gym

Her confidence also soared beyond physical appearance. "When you prove to yourself that you can stick with something challenging for a month, it changes how you approach other difficult things in life," Makari explains. "I'm more willing to take on new challenges because I know I have the discipline to follow through."

Metabolic Improvements

Eating and drinking image of a young woman eating mixed nutsShutterstock

The metabolic benefits were equally impressive. "My body burns energy more efficiently now. I notice I can eat more without feeling sluggish, and my recovery between sets is much faster," she points out. These physiological adaptations supported her continued progress throughout the month.

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

The Final Results

After four weeks of dedicated training, Makari's strength tests demonstrated measurable progress:

  • Plank: Increased from 1:30 to 2:00 minutes
  • Wall sit: Improved from 1:00 to 2:00 minutes
  • Chin-ups: Increased from 2 to 4 complete reps
  • Push-ups: Improved from 10 to 15 reps (completed faster)
  • Shoulder presses: Maintained 25 reps but increased weight from 10 to 15 pounds (completed faster)

Mission Accomplished

"I'd say that this month I became harder, better, faster, and stronger," Makari concludes. Her journey proves that consistent training, proper recovery, and adequate nutrition can transform both body and mind in just one month.

If you're considering a similar challenge, remember that progress looks different for everyone. As Makari puts it, "You might be lifting more. You might be lifting less. It doesn't really matter. You do you."

More For You

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.

Have you ever hit that point where your workouts just feel like going through the motions? That's exactly where Makari Espe found herself. As a fitness enthusiast with 140,000 YouTube subscribers, she was stuck in a comfortable but unchallenging routine – just lifting weights twice a week for 20 minutes. "I want to be harder, better, faster, and stronger," Makari says, deciding to shake things up by lifting five times a week instead. Could just a few extra gym sessions actually make a real difference? That's what she wanted to find out. And honestly, if you've been feeling stuck in your own fitness journey, her results might be exactly the motivation you need.

The Challenge Setup

Before diving into her intensified routine, Makari established a baseline to measure her progress. "I did a 1 minute and 30 second plank hold, 1 minute wall sit, 2 chin-ups, 10 push-ups, and 25 shoulder presses with 10 pound weights," she shares. This initial test wasn't without emotional hurdles. "The last time I did a test like this, I was about 19, and I did a lot better then. So at this moment right here, I'm currently comparing myself to how strong I was as a teenager," Makari admits.

RELATED:Tone Sagging Arms in 2 Weeks With These 5 Exercises

Week 1: Building the Foundation

Makari's new routine followed a strategic split to maximize results while preventing burnout. "The idea is to do two big muscle groups per workout so that each muscle group is rested by the time you work it out again, and we're not all out here hating our lives," she explains. Her weekly schedule included:

  • Day 1: Back and biceps
  • Day 2: Legs and shoulders
  • Day 3: Rest
  • Day 4: Chest and back
  • Day 5: Legs and core
  • Day 6: Rest
  • Day 7: Chest and triceps.

Adjusting to Longer Sessions

Young fitness woman looking at her smart watch while taking a break from outdoor workout. Sportwoman checking pulse on fitness smart watch device.Shutterstock

The extended workout time was immediately noticeable. "As someone who is used to doing 20 minute workouts, I'm definitely noticing that extra 10 minutes," Makari points out.

Week 2: Increasing the Intensity

Moving into the second week, Makari transitioned from beginner to intermediate workouts. "The intermediate program is significantly harder than the week 1 program. The positions require way more coordination and core stability, and I'm fitting a lot more reps into this 30-minute time frame," she reveals.

This increased difficulty targeted specific muscle groups more intensely. "My triceps are killing me. More so than any other muscle group this whole challenge so far, my triceps are dead," Makari shares.

RELATED:12-3-30 Walking Method: 20 Proven Tips to Lose Weight Faster

Mental Hurdles

Tired woman having rest after workout. Tired and exhausted female athlete sitting on floor at gym with a water bottle.11 Weight-Loss Secrets Most Experts Won't Tell You, From a Leading Personal TrainerShutterstock

Despite the physical challenges, mental obstacles became apparent. "Morale is a solid 6 out of 10. The 30 minutes are going by way faster than before, so that's good. But I still have to drag myself to the gym, and repeatedly tell myself to trust the process," she admits.

Week 3: Finding the Rhythm

Gym and dumbbell weight training equipment on sport ,Healthy life and gym exercise equipments and sports concept ,copy space​The Workout StrategyShutterstock

By the third week, Makari's body was responding to the consistent training. "I've gone up a weight. My heavy is now 20. It used to be 15," she says proudly.

Recovery became equally important as the workouts themselves. "The swim was amazing for many reasons, but the main one was it was so nice on my sore muscles," Makari explains after incorporating swimming on one of her rest days.

Nutrition Support

salmon steak with fresh herbsA Year of Successful MaintenanceShutterstock

The combination of consistent training and nutrition adjustments began paying dividends. "I changed my diet up a little bit last week. So I'm putting so much more good fuel into my body which is giving me more energy to perform in the gym," she shares.

RELATED:I Got My Best Body After 50 and Here’s How You Can, Too

Finding the Joy

This holistic approach transformed her relationship with exercise. "I've crossed the threshold or I've found the joy in weightlifting again. I'm not just lifting weights to go through the motions and like do it because I know I have to. I'm doing it because I know I can," Makari reflects.

Everyday Energy Boost

Beautiful woman checking her body shape in a mirror.15 Daily Habits to Lose 5-10 Pounds in 30 DaysShutterstock

Makari also noticed improvements in her daily activities. "I feel so much more energetic throughout the day. Tasks that used to tire me out now feel easier," she explains. The increased strength translated to practical benefits beyond aesthetics.

Sleep Improvements

Her sleep quality showed remarkable improvement as well. "I'm falling asleep faster and waking up more refreshed. My body actually craves that deep recovery sleep now," Makari shares. This unexpected benefit reinforced her commitment to the program despite the challenging schedule.

Week 4: The Transformation

Happy young woman stretching before running outdoorsShutterstock

The final week revealed not just physical improvements but mental ones too. "Now that I'm over the hump, I actually feel even stronger than I did as a teenager. This is going to sound really cheesy but it's because not only do I feel physically stronger but I feel stronger in my brain," Makari explains.

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

Time Investment Reality

The time commitment remained significant but worthwhile. "Roughly three and a half hours every week is a lot of free time to be able to put towards working out. But ultimately it makes me feel so much better outside of the gym," she acknowledges.

Stress Management

Hands of a woman playing with nails in stress​Your Body Is Slowing DownShutterstock

Makari noticed significant changes in her stress resilience. "I handle daily challenges with more calm now. Things that would've stressed me out before don't affect me as much," she shares. This mental toughness became one of the most valuable outcomes of her experiment.

Confidence Beyond the Gym

Her confidence also soared beyond physical appearance. "When you prove to yourself that you can stick with something challenging for a month, it changes how you approach other difficult things in life," Makari explains. "I'm more willing to take on new challenges because I know I have the discipline to follow through."

Metabolic Improvements

Eating and drinking image of a young woman eating mixed nutsShutterstock

The metabolic benefits were equally impressive. "My body burns energy more efficiently now. I notice I can eat more without feeling sluggish, and my recovery between sets is much faster," she points out. These physiological adaptations supported her continued progress throughout the month.

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

The Final Results

After four weeks of dedicated training, Makari's strength tests demonstrated measurable progress:

  • Plank: Increased from 1:30 to 2:00 minutes
  • Wall sit: Improved from 1:00 to 2:00 minutes
  • Chin-ups: Increased from 2 to 4 complete reps
  • Push-ups: Improved from 10 to 15 reps (completed faster)
  • Shoulder presses: Maintained 25 reps but increased weight from 10 to 15 pounds (completed faster)

Mission Accomplished

"I'd say that this month I became harder, better, faster, and stronger," Makari concludes. Her journey proves that consistent training, proper recovery, and adequate nutrition can transform both body and mind in just one month.

If you're considering a similar challenge, remember that progress looks different for everyone. As Makari puts it, "You might be lifting more. You might be lifting less. It doesn't really matter. You do you."

Dr_Taylor_Niedermaier12
Copyright tayruns26.2/YouTube

Are you trying to transform your body and your overall approach to health? Tay, one half of Healthy Living with Brooke and Tay, is a DPT and Certified Macro Coach who, along with her sister, helps simplify fat loss for women. In a new Instagram post, she reveals that making a few swaps and incorporating some simple habits into her routine was responsible for her incredible before-and-after transformation. “I changed my habits and my body… & you can too. All you need to do is learn some simple info that then changes your life,” she writes in the post.


She Corrected Her Mistakes

“There was a time I was doing things & just felt tired, inflamed, low energy & run down,” she says, going on to reveal the mistakes she was making, which included “running too much,” “not strength training,” “eating out a lot,” “not paying attention well to nutrition,” and “staying up later.”

She Maintained a Calorie Deficit for 12 Weeks

She explains that she “then made some SIMPLE swaps” that were totally game-changing. The first one had to do with her diet. “Calorie deficit for 12 weeks,” she writes. “Then reversed to maintenance when fat was lowered.” She also adds that she understands that you can’t be in a deficit all the time.

RELATED:She Dropped 17 Pounds After Changing Her Morning Coffee Recipe

She Amped Up Her Protein Intake

The second thing she did was amp up her protein intake. “I enjoyed high protein meals and ate four meals a day,” she says. She specified she “hit my protein goal” daily. 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.

She Walked 10K Steps Per Day

She also prioritized getting her steps in. “I walked 10k steps a day,” she writes. She also “walked in the AM” to ensure she didn’t bow out. 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.

She Focused On Macros

“I focused on macros & whole ingredients,” she continued. “I still indulged in some of my favorite foods from time to time without tracking.” She strongly recommends learning how to calculate yours. “I had NO idea how learning about macros would better my life. Prior, I had no idea about proteins, carbs & fats and why all are important & how they help fuel me and give me energy,” she says.

Consistency is key, she stresses. “I stayed consistent & patient,” she writes. “I kept going. I stayed the course & kept going when I wasn’t motivated.”

RELATED:She Lost 60 Pounds After Finding These 3 Plant-Based Foods She Eats Every Day

She Lifted Weights

She also lifted weights. She “committed to 40 min strength workouts,” she writes. 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

She Got Enough Sleep

Rest is also key, she says. She “slept well” during her fat loss period. What are the health benefits of sleep? 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.

RELATED:Fitness Coach Reveals 12 Habits That Helped Her Beat Stubborn Belly Fat

She Made Progress

“I didn’t know that when I dialed this in, my body would actually RESPOND & I could make PROGRESS,” she writes. You have to stay consistent. You have to keep showing up & realize that improving your body takes time. You also have to realize that you are amazing and loved in every state of being. I was just tired of being tired & wanted to feel my best.” And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

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.

Gabby Dawn Allen is getting back in shape! Gabby, a fitness influencer with over one million followers on Instagram. Her main goal? “To make fitness fun,” she says in her bio. Earlier this month Gabby underwent a breast augmentation surgery, and has been sharing updates with her followers. This week she revealed that she was back in the gym with a new “post boob job” workout routine. Here is everything you need to know about it.


She Is Doing a 5-day Split

Gabby reveals that the workout is a 5 day split of glutes, upper and lower liss, legs heavy, and HIIT and abs-slash legs light. “As I have been sat on my arse more than usual, I have lost some of my booty gains, so I am back to incorporating three lower body sessions into my week, one fully focused on glutes, one heavy leg day, which will also include some glutes and one lighter leg day, which will include explosive movements too,” she explains.

It Involves Progressive Overload “To Regain Strength”

Gabby_Dawn_Allen_gabbydawnallen5gabbydawnallen/Instagram

Gabby added that she is doing progressive overload to regain strength. “I have lost my ability to lift the same weight that I had done prior to surgery so I will be working on the same program for the next 6 to 8 weeks, whilst I focus on gradually increasing the weight to get me back to where I left off,” she explains. “Muscle memory is a powerful thing if I do this safely and smartly, I should be back there in no time.”

Related: I'm a Dietitian and Here's the Food Combo That Helped Me Lose 100 Pounds

She Is Prioritizing Rest and Recovery

Gabby_Dawn_Allen_gabbydawnallen6gabbydawnallen/Instagram

Gabby also revealed that she is prioritizing rest and recovery. “The only way our muscles will grow is if they have enough downtime. I will be training lower body three times a week, but how I structure the program, is what will enable me to do this. For example, hamstrings will be the dominating muscle focused on in the heavier workout and the quads on the lighter days,” she says in the post

She Is Increasing Protein Intake on Maintenance Calories

Gabby_Dawn_Allen_gabbydawnallen4gabbydawnallen/Instagram

Gabby is also increasing protein intake on maintenance calories. “I have tried to focus on hitting my protein macro, but I’ve also been in a calorie deficit as coming back into training,” she writes. “I wanted my focus to be on building my strength back up not losing weight. I will increase my focus on getting 2 g of protein in per kilo of bodyweight and I am also going to up my calories to maintenance again as my level of exercise is now increasing. I am going to need to fuel these glutes back up baby !!”

She Is Continuing with Her Daily Average Step Count

Gabby_Dawn_Allen_gabbydawnallen3gabbydawnallen/Instagram

Gabby is also keeping up with her steps. “I have been walking my little socks off during this downtime to keep my NEAT taking over, this alongside my deficit has helped me keep some KG offs. I am aiming to keep the step count up because whilst the goal is to grow the booty with the workout and food, I also want to stay lean,” she says.

Related: How to Lose Weight If You Can’t Work Out

She Is Patient and Consistent

Gabby_Dawn_Allen_gabbydawnallen2gabbydawnallen/Instagram

Finally, Gabby is being patient and consistent with her progress. “After any downtime, if it surgery induced or not, it is important to be kind to yourself, and remember how long it took you to get to this far, you WILL get back to your best. Set yourself a goal, stick to your plan and make it frikin happen,” she concludes.

💪🔥Body Booster: After having any major surgery or medical issues, always consult with a doctor before you start exercising again. Once they give you the go-ahead, ease back into your routine.

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.

Do you feel like your face is “puffier” and “fluffier” than it used to be? There might be a reason for that, according to one expert. Katie Hardage Penland is a fitness coach who helps people “workout smarter, not harder.” In a new social media post, she discusses how she depuffed and defluffed her face. “40+ Ladies. I realize I was not overweight by definition in my before picture, and that’s not what this post is about. I had hit my 40s and noticed I started to feel puffier/fluffier,” she writes in the Instagram post.


Running Was Leaving Her with Inflammation

“What once worked for me (running) was actually making me feel worse. I could feel it: in my face, arms, tummy…Long story short, I had to make changes. Here are three that made a huge difference,” she writes at the start of the post.

She Swapped Running for Walking

The first thing she did was swapped running for walking. “Now, my runner people don’t freak out…running obviously has great benefits, but losing fat and toning up is not one of them. I’ve been an avid runner my whole life. If you are excessively running and feeling bad, that’s a sign you need to reevaluate what’s happening to your body,” she writes.

She Focused on Macros Over Calories

Next, she focused on macros, not calories. “Nutrition is important for any age, but especially for midlife mommas! Our bodies are naturally losing muscle as we age, so fueling ourselves with the right macro split can make all the difference!” she writes in the post.

She Incorporated Strength Training

Finally, she incorporated three strength training days a week. “Remember what I just said about us losing muscle as we age?! That’s a BIG problem if you aren’t focused on building it. Muscle burns more calories than fat. It’s more metabolically active than fat tissue, so it burns more calories…not just during a workout but way after, too…like while you’re watching Netflix. If you stop focusing on calories burned in your one treadmill sweat session and start focusing on building some muscle so you can burn more all day, you would see a BIG change in that extra fluff!” she writes.

RELATED:I Lost 32 Pounds of Fat and Shaved 10 Inches Off My Waist with These 8 Tips

She Used to Spend “Hours” at the Gym

In another post she elaborates on how she changed her approach to fitness. “I used to hit the gym for hours on the daily. I would hop on the treadmill, run some miles, piddle around the weight section for a bit, and then throw in some abs or stretches at the end. The problem I had?! NOTHING CHANGED! I was working out so hard, but seeing no positive change for it,” she says.

Her Approach Didn’t Work

“I knew nutrition played a part in that so I counted/restricted calories and started to GAIN weight (and I don’t mean muscle)! I knew something wasn’t right. For the amount of effort I was putting in, the reward should be much better. ‼️Fast forward to now…I learned how to pair my workouts WITH macros and it changed it all for me‼️” she continued.

She Focuses on Progressive Overload

“I follow 30-minute workouts that focus on a progressive overload format. I pair these with the RIGHT macros for my age and body’s needs! This helped balance my hormones, improved my cortisol levels, increased my energy, and improved my sleep…which all resulted in burning crazy fat and building muscle!” she says.

She Pairs Short HIIT Workouts with Lower Carb Days

Here is an example. “I pair a short, HIIT workout with a lower carb day. Your body’s number one preferred source of energy comes from carbs. When you don’t have those to pull from it dips into your fat stores instead! Pair that with a fat-burning workout like HIIT, and watch what happens,” she says.

RELATED:Weight Loss Coach Shares 4 Natural Ways She Lost 12 Pounds After Having Kids

She Pairs Higher Carb Days with 30 Minute Strength Training Workouts

“On the flip side, I pair my higher carb days with 30-minute strength training workouts…to have the energy, to build the muscle which helps burn more fat all day. If you’re not seeing the change you want to see, try this method!” she says. “Work smarter, not harder!” And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 31 Fitness Tips Every Beginner Needs to Look Sexy, According to Coaches.

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.

Just because you are getting older doesn’t mean you have an excuse to let yourself go. Alicia Erikson, aka the “Midlife Maven,” makes it her mission to help women in their 40s and 50s get into the best shape of their lives. In a recent post, she joked about what she thought she would look like at her age. “How I thought I would rock my 50s vs how I’m actually rocking in my 50s,” she writes in the Instagram video, revealing her sensational six-pack. “Do you remember in your 20s thinking you will be ancient in your 50s? I do 🖐️Psych!!!!! We are just starting to truly blossom and come into our full badassery at 50! It’s the best!!! YES, you CAN!!” she added in the caption. How does the 51-year-old manage to look half her age? In another recent post, she reveals the workout technique that helped her achieve her goal of a forever young body.


Progressive Overload

“Not sure who might need to hear it, but this is the way, ladies! What is progressive overload? Progressive overload is a fundamental principle of strength training and muscle development. It involves gradually increasing the intensity, volume, or difficulty of your workouts to continuously challenge your muscles, prompting them to adapt and grow stronger over time,” she writes in the post.

RELATED:5 Breakfasts I Eat On Repeat to Drop Body Fat Fast

Here Are Examples of Progressive Overload

She offers the following examples of progressive overload:

  1. Increase the load.
  2. Increase the power (load x velocity)
  3. Increase the repetitions per set.
  4. Increase the sets per workout.
  5. Increase the number of workouts per week.
  6. Increase the range of motion.

Lift Heavy and Rest in Between

“If you want to build muscle and get the ‘toned’ look, lifting heavy and resting in between sets is key! I typically rest for 1-2 minutes. I follow a specific training block for at least four weeks at a time. You will not get bulky unless your diet reflects bulking goals!” she continues.

RELATED:This "20-10" Method Is the Simplest Way to Lose Belly Fat and Up to 40 Pounds

You Might Feel Bulky But Are Burning Fat

“You might FEEL bulky as you begin to lift weights, and your body is adjusting; your muscles may be retaining water, and you could be building muscle faster than you’re losing fat,” she says. “Give it time and patience, and pretty soon, you will be a muscle-building, fat-burning machine. It goes without saying your nutrition needs to reflect your goals!”

RELATED:I'm a Dietitian, and These Are the 12 Exact Steps to Lose Body Fat for Good

LISS Workouts Also Help

“Lifting and walking (or any LISS you love) has been the magic combo for me and so many! Even if you need to fit it into 10-20-minute chunks throughout your day! Again, this requires consistency (not perfection) and takes time. This is where you lock in and fall in love with the process. It becomes your lifestyle and you look forward to it every day!” she concludes in the post. 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.

Michelle Roots Fitness & Nutrition Coach
7 Realistic Tricks to Lose Arm Fat That Fitness Coach Swears By
Copyright Michelle Roots/YouTube
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.

Between work, family, and everything else life throws your way, finding time to prepare healthy meals can feel impossible. Michelle Roots, a kinesiologist, personal trainer, and nutrition coach with over 18 years of experience, has mastered the art of quick, effective meal prep. "I'm a wife, a busy mama of two little boys, and I run two businesses," says Michelle in her post. "Often I'm working until eight o'clock at night, and when I come home, I don't have time to cook a fancy Instagram-worthy meal." Michelle created these six high-protein meals—all ready in under 10 minutes—to help people "increase lean muscle and decrease body fat to become the strongest, leanest, healthiest versions of themselves." These simple meals will keep you on track with your fat loss goals without spending hours in the kitchen.

Your 10-Minute Taco Bowl

This metabolism-boosting twist on taco night packs in protein and nutrients without the extra calories. Start with a base of quick-cook brown rice (Michelle recommends the 90-second packs for when meal prep isn't possible). Add pre-made taco meat and steamed frozen broccoli for fiber and volume. "I always buy bags of frozen broccoli from Costco—they're one of my favorite things because I actually just love broccoli loaded with fiber, high volume to keep me feeling full, and of course loaded with micronutrients," Michelle explains. Based on your daily nutrition needs, finish with a dollop of sour cream and sprinkle of cheese. This protein-rich meal comes together in minutes and helps fuel fat loss while keeping you satisfied.

Protein-Packed Kale Salad in Minutes

Turn store-bought salad kits into fat-burning meals with this grab-and-go strategy. Michelle makes this a weekly staple: "When I'm at the grocery store on either a Sunday or Monday, I will always pick up one or two of these kale salads just to have in the fridge and again just to have in a pinch versus stopping for fast food." Simply pour your kale salad into a bowl and add protein—pre-cooked chicken, leftover salmon, or shrimp. Michelle's surprising favorite protein add-in? "Do not knock it till you try it... I will do two whole eggs and liquid egg whites, scramble that in a pan, and I will throw the scrambled eggs into the salad." For extra nutrients, add sliced cucumber, berries, and just half to three-quarters of the provided dressing. This quick meal supports fat loss while delivering essential proteins for muscle maintenance.

Fat-Burning 10-Minute Stir Fry

This protein-rich alternative to takeout helps burn fat while satisfying cravings. Start with a bag of stir-fry vegetables heated in a pan. "Another thing I like to throw in on top of that is I always have a bag of frozen edamame beans in the freezer so I will take those edamame beans, a few servings, and I throw those into the pan too—just more protein and so many more nutrients," Michelle explains. Add brown rice (meal prepped or from quick-cook packs) and your protein of choice—pre-cooked chicken, shrimp, salmon, or steak. When really pressed for time, Michelle suggests: "When in doubt I just need a quick protein, I will scramble some eggs and toss it into the stir fry and mix it all up." Finish with a lower-sugar sauce like Naked and Saucy teriyaki sesame ginger for a metabolism-boosting meal in minutes.

No-Cook Tuna Protein Bowl for Fat Loss

When you need protein without cooking, this fat-burning combo delivers results fast. "Again a super easy go-to—this is great for lunch, this is great to make and take on the go with you, or a quick dinner when you get home late and you're exhausted and you don't feel like cooking," Michelle says. Simply mix a can of tuna with half a mashed avocado. Add mustard for flavor—"I personally really love mustard so I will put a little bit of mustard in there and I will mix that all up," Michelle shares. Serve over spinach for extra nutrients or spread on whole grain toast for a complete meal. The combination of lean protein and healthy fats helps control hunger while supporting metabolism—perfect for fat loss without complicated cooking.

Muscle-Building Protein Pasta in 10 Minutes

Transform comfort food into a fat-burning, muscle-building powerhouse with this simple swap. "Easy high protein meal number five is a high protein pasta, so either a lentil pasta or a chickpea pasta," Michelle explains. These alternatives pack significantly more protein than regular pasta, supporting metabolism and muscle growth. Add an additional protein boost: "What I like to do is add some shrimp to it, or another great idea is to mix in some cottage cheese with your tomato sauce and add that to the pasta." Include steamed vegetables for additional volume and nutrients. Michelle highlights an added benefit: "The cool thing about this one is you can make a big portion for yourself and you will have leftovers for the next day and possibly the day after depending on what your serving sizes are going to look like." This quick meal supports your body's fat-burning potential while keeping hunger at bay.

Your 10-Minute Fat-Burning Protein Plate

This customizable formula boosts metabolism with whatever ingredients you have handy. "Last but not least a super easy pick a protein, baked sweet potato, and pick a steamed veggie so asparagus or broccoli—something that you enjoy to eat," Michelle explains. Choose any protein—pre-cooked chicken, quick-cooking salmon in the air fryer, or Michelle's shortcut option: "Now this could be, guess what, scrambled eggs—mix in cottage cheese to your scrambled eggs to increase the protein portion." Pair with a microwave or air-fried sweet potato and steamed vegetables for a complete meal. "I'll bake a sweet potato either microwave or in the air fryer and then steam some broccoli and eat that and call it a day," Michelle says. This balanced combination provides the perfect mix of protein, complex carbs, and nutrients to support fat burning and muscle maintenance without complicated recipes.

The 10-Minute Secret to Sustainable Fat Loss

"Call me boring, but I honestly feel food is just fuel," Michelle says, cutting through the Instagram-perfect meal culture. These six quick, protein-rich meals deliver what matters—results. "I am able to stay lean, I don't feel starving, I don't feel deprived, I don't feel like I'm on a diet," Michelle emphasizes. The real key to fat loss isn't complicated recipes but consistent, simple nutrition choices. "When I am coming home from work at 8:15 and I'm starving, I know that I'm not stopping even at a healthier fast food restaurant—I know I'm going home because I have these options ready to go." By adapting these meal frameworks to your tastes and nutrition targets, you'll build the sustainable habits needed for lasting fat loss. As Michelle puts it, "If you really want to see changes in your body composition, if you want to reach your fat loss goals, if you want to start to see some muscle definition and not only see it but maintain these results, you need to start building these healthy habits." And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Camden Mamian mamianfitness
Copyright mamianfitness/Instagram
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 dieting and exercising but still hanging onto belly weight? Camden Mamian is a metabolic expert and fitness trainer who helps his clients repair their hormones to lose weight. In a new social media post, he reveals the biggest missteps you might be making, causing you to hold onto weight in your midsection. “Your body will keep storing fat in your lower belly and hips until you stop making these mistakes,” he writes.

You Are likely Making a Mistake

Here’s the truth: “Fat loss isn’t magic, it’s science. And odds are, you might be making one (or more) of these mistakes,” he writes.

You’re Running on Coffee and Wine

One common mistake? Running on coffee and alcohol. “Surviving on caffeine all day and winding down with wine at night? Multiple drinks throughout the week can throw off your macros, disrupt sleep, and leave you exhausted the next day—making fat loss feel impossible,” he writes.

You’re Eating Too Little

Another common mistake? “Trying to survive on 1,200 calories while chasing kids and busy at work? No wonder you’re exhausted. Overly aggressive deficits aren’t sustainable and leave your metabolism hurting making that binging cycle even worse!” he says.

You’re Not Moving Enough

Not exercising enough will also have you holding onto weight. “Yes, you’re busy. But even if you work out 3-4 times a week, the rest of the day matters too. Walking, playing with your kids, and staying active outside the gym are crucial for long-term fat loss,” he writes.

You’re All in…Til the Weekend

If you are all in during the week, but majorly cheating on the weekend, it could be having serious consequences. “Monday - Thursday, you’re on point. Then Friday - Sunday? It’s a free-for-all. If you’re only hitting your goals 57% of the time, progress is going to be slow. Consistency over time is what truly gets results,” he writes.

No Meal Planning, No Success

If you aren’t meal-prepping, you are making a big mistake. “No groceries, no plan, and no clue what’s for dinner? That’s when bad choices happen. A little preparation goes a long way in setting yourself up for success,” he points out.

You’re Guessing Instead of Tracking

Don’t try guessing in lieu of tracking. “You wouldn’t guess your kids’ school schedule, so why guess your food intake? Tracking isn’t forever, but it’s a powerful tool to help you understand what your body actually needs,” he says.

You Want Results Yesterday

Be patient, results take time. “A couple of good weeks doesn’t undo years of habits. Give yourself at least 3 months of consistency before deciding if something is working. (But it shouldn’t force you to restrict)” he concludes. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Dr. Eric Berg DC
Copyright Dr. Eric Berg DC/YouTube
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.

Staying healthy after 50 doesn't have to be complicated, but many of us unknowingly sabotage our wellbeing. Dr. Eric Berg, DC, age 59, specializes in Healthy Ketosis and Intermittent Fasting and has dedicated his career to uncovering the truth about getting healthy and losing weight. As director of Dr. Berg's Nutritionals, a best-selling Amazon author with 13 million YouTube subscribers, his experience has revealed seven critical mistakes that can dramatically impact your health, especially after 50. Avoiding these common pitfalls could transform your energy, weight, and overall wellness starting today.

Trusting the Wrong Health Sources

Your health information is only as good as its source. In his post, Dr. Berg warns that "you want to really make sure that the source of your information that you get is based on someone who has a lot of experience and results in the problem you're trying to solve." Most conventional doctors receive minimal nutrition training, focusing instead on matching symptoms with medications. As Dr. Berg explains, standard medical practice is often "about giving you a label for a certain condition that's very descriptive and then matching that with a medication." What you really need is someone focused on addressing root causes rather than masking symptoms.

Accepting Diagnoses Without Question

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Not all medical diagnoses get to the heart of your problem. "Be very careful about accepting a diagnosis that just doesn't seem right," Dr. Berg advises. Many health conditions share similar symptoms but require completely different treatments. Before accepting a diagnosis that doesn't feel right, consider seeking a second opinion or working with a healthcare provider who examines the underlying causes of your symptoms rather than just treating the surface issues.

Using Treatments With Harsh Side Effects

Woman bending over toilet and having a nausea, vomit, vomitting, sick, bathroom​Common Side Effects to ExpectShutterstock

The cure shouldn't be worse than the condition. Dr. Berg emphasizes that you should "make sure that the solution or the treatment that you get doesn't create more problems than your current symptoms, aka side effects." Many conventional treatments come with side effects that can trigger new health issues, creating a cascade of problems. Instead of accepting these risks as inevitable, explore treatment options that address the root cause with minimal side effects.

Neglecting Critical Nutrients

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After 50, three specific nutrients become absolutely essential. "The most important one is vitamin D," states Dr. Berg. "Did you know that vitamin D influences 10% of those genes?" He notes that therapeutic benefits often require higher doses than typically recommended: "To create a therapeutic effect for vitamin D, you need to use 10,000, 20,000, 30,000, 50,000, or more of vitamin D3 to really create an effect." The second critical nutrient is magnesium, which Dr. Berg explains is "involved in thousands of different things in the body. Every different type of heart disease usually has a magnesium deficiency." The third key nutrient is zinc, which works synergistically with the other two. "Zinc is very, very important and a lot of people are deficient in zinc," Dr. Berg notes, adding that these nutrients "all really depend on each other."

Consuming Too Much Calcium and Iron

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Not all nutrients are beneficial in large amounts. "As we age, calcium tends to plug everything up," Dr. Berg warns. Without sufficient magnesium to regulate calcium, excess amounts can deposit in soft tissues and contribute to heart disease. Even more concerning is excess iron: "If you have too much iron, you're going to rust out your organs," cautions Dr. Berg. Our bodies can only eliminate 0.5 to 1 milligram of iron daily, yet the recommended daily allowance is much higher—8 mg for men and 18 mg for women of childbearing age. Dr. Berg advises, "We're taking in way too much iron" and suggests carefully monitoring food labels to avoid excessive intake.

Restricting Dietary Cholesterol

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Cholesterol is crucial, especially as you age. "When we age is we start having a decrease in hormones, testosterone, progesterone, estrogen, things like that. And all of those hormones are built out of cholesterol," Dr. Berg explains. Reducing cholesterol through diet or medication can further deplete already diminishing hormone levels after 50. According to Dr. Berg, "We need cholesterol for our brain, bile salts to help digest fats. Most importantly, we need cholesterol to make hormones." He recommends consuming cholesterol-rich foods like "butter, eggs, dairy, shellfish" to support hormone production.

Eating Too Frequently and Too Many Carbs

At doctors appointment physician shows to patient shape of liver with focus on hand with organ.​Protection Against Fatty Liver DiseaseShutterstock

Your eating pattern may be more important than what you eat. "Every time you eat, you stimulate insulin," explains Dr. Berg. "Producing too much insulin is probably the single biggest problem right now behind so many chronic illnesses, not just diabetes, but a fatty liver, high blood pressure." He suggests reducing your eating frequency: "If you could just take your snacks, if it's nuts or whatever, and just push them to the meal and just had two meals a day, I think that would be awesome." This approach naturally supports intermittent fasting, which helps reduce insulin levels. Additionally, Dr. Berg emphasizes the importance of reducing carbohydrates, especially starches: "It's not just about cutting down the sugar carbohydrates. It's cutting down this other carbohydrate called starch."

Not Prioritizing Protein as You Age

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

Protein becomes increasingly vital after 50. "Most of your body is protein, not just muscle, connective tissue, but your immune system, antibodies, white blood cells," Dr. Berg explains. He notes that people "will continue to eat until their protein requirements are satisfied," which explains why low-protein junk foods never truly satisfy hunger. As you age and naturally lose muscle mass, protein requirements actually increase. Dr. Berg recommends nutrient-dense animal proteins: "What food would give you the most healing? Right off the bat, grass-fed beef, grass-fed lamb. That's the most nutrient-dense food to heal the gut, to give you trace minerals, to give you B vitamins, but also to give you the highest quality protein."

Ignoring Your Environment and Stress Levels

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Your surroundings and stress management significantly impact your health. "If you expose yourself to too much stress, it kind of gets stuck into your mind and you're trying to go to bed and you can't sleep and you're worrying and you're in this constant state of fear," Dr. Berg explains. He emphasizes the healing power of nature: "I didn't realize at first how important your environment was until I had this great opportunity to move out of the city into the farm. I'm going to tell you having that space is such a therapy. It's going into nature. It's so important to do this on a regular basis." Regular exercise also plays a crucial role in stress management. As Dr. Berg notes, "What exercise does is it kind of flushes out the cortisol and the adrenaline that builds up just from being on this planet."

Underestimating the Gut Microbiome

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Your gut bacteria function as a vital organ system. "What you have to realize is when you take an antibiotic, you will never have the same microbes ever again," warns Dr. Berg. Contrary to common belief, he states, "It's a lie that they told you that, oh yeah, you're just going to actually decrease the number of microbes, and they're just going to come back to normal just like before. No, that's a lie." Your microbiome influences everything from immune function to mood: "The importance of supporting the gut microbes as an organ is vital for what? Immune protection, the neurotransmitters that are created, your mood, your cognitive function is influenced by the microbes." Dr. Berg recommends regularly consuming "fermented foods, sauerkraut, kimchi, yogurt, and taking a very good probiotic."

Final Word

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Creating lasting health requires deliberate action, especially after 50. As Dr. Berg emphasizes, "health has to be created. It doesn't just automatically happen." By avoiding these seven critical mistakes, you're setting yourself up for vibrant health well beyond age 50. Start implementing these changes today to build a foundation for lasting wellness that supports your body's natural healing abilities. 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.