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Why Cardio Isn’t the Queen Anymore

I grew up in the 80s and 90s with leg warmers, Jane Fonda, and step aerobics leading the fitness scene. Back then, cardio was the queen. We were taught that the more you sweat it out on the treadmill or in an aerobics class, the more calories you’d burn, and the more weight you’d lose.

But here’s the thing: in perimenopause and menopause, more cardio doesn’t equal more fat loss. In fact, it often backfires. Long sessions of running, cycling, or high-impact classes actually raise cortisol, your stress hormone. And when cortisol goes up, guess what else goes up? Belly fat.

That’s right—those endless cardio sessions that used to feel like the gold standard are now contributing to the very thing you want to get rid of.

This doesn’t mean cardio is bad or that you should never do it. But it’s no longer the star player. Midlife bodies need a smarter strategy—one that works with your hormones, not against them.

Apple Podcast - Spotify

Why Traditional Cardio Isn’t Working Anymore

Let’s just say it: what used to work doesn’t anymore.

If you’ve been logging miles on the elliptical, sweating it out with daily high-intensity workouts, or pushing through long cardio sessions hoping to burn off that menopause belly, I see you. I’ve been there too. And the truth is—especially in midlife—more cardio is not better.

In fact, for many women over 40, too much of the wrong kind of cardio can actually work against you.

As a Trim Healthy Mama coach, menopause fitness specialist, and personal trainer in my own midlife season, I’ve had to completely rethink how I move my body—and I’ve coached hundreds of other women through that same shift.

Let’s break down what you really need to know about cardio in your 40s, 50s, and beyond, so you can work smarter (not harder), protect your metabolism, and finally feel strong in your skin again.

The Hormonal Shift That Changes Everything

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Apple Podcast - Spotify

Midlife can feel like a rollercoaster, especially when your hormones seem to have a mind of their own, your body isn’t responding to old routines, and stress levels are through the roof. 

But here's the thing—you can thrive in this season of life! 

It takes smart movement, mindful eating, and the right support system to get you there. 

I’ve been where you are, and through years of trial and error, I’ve discovered what works for me and the women I coach. 

So, let’s dive into how you can thrive, starting with movement, nutrition, and managing those hormone changes you’re dealing with in midlife.

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