Why I Started 60Fit | Fitness and Wellbeing in Midlife (My first blog!)

Let's Talk About...

Starting Something New at 60.

It might seem a little daunting; however, for me it has felt like exactly the right time. Up until I reached 50, I was fairly fit. I’d run a number of marathons, I didn’t really have to think too much about my weight, and generally felt comfortable in my own skin. And then… BOOM...... menopause hit me like a runaway hormonal steam train.

Almost overnight, everything changed. Each week I would step on the scales and somehow another 2 or 3 lbs had appeared (where from, I still don’t know!). Everything ached, my energy disappeared, my body no longer felt like mine and my get up and go just strolled right away!

What little energy I did have went straight into work and my career. My confidence dipped, I lost my motivation, and more often than not I would find myself sitting at home with a glass of wine in front of the box, rather than getting out and moving.

Something had to change.

When I turned 60 last year, I knew it was time for a reset not just physically, but mentally too. I wanted to refocus on my health, find the right kind of exercise for me, spend more time outdoors, and create a better balance in my life.

I started reading and learning more about what our bodies actually need as we get older, especially as women. I discovered the importance of gut health (thank you Tim Spector), reducing ultra-processed foods (Chris van Tulleken definitely opened my eyes!), and the real value of strength training (inspired by Stacy Sims). Book reviews and more on that to come .... watch this space!

What I’ve learned is that staying fit isn’t about extremes or endlessly pounding the pavements, although if that’s your thing go for it ( I certainly enjoyed it in the day!), just don't do it in isolation (remember strength is key)!

It’s not about keeping up with anyone else either. It’s about finding what works for you, staying consistent, and actually enjoying it. For me, that now looks like a mix of walking, running, strength training, and spending as much time outdoors as I can, often with my little dog Loki by my side. It also means cooking simple, unprocessed recipes that helps me feel strong, energised and well. And yes … I do still enjoy the occasional bite of “naughtiness” because life is about balance, after all!

More than anything, I’ve come to realise just how important it is to look after our bodies as we get older. Strength, mobility and good nutrition aren’t just “nice to have” they’re essential if we want to stay independent and keep doing the things we love.

That’s really why I started 60Fit.

I wanted to create a space to share what works for me, honestly and simply. Not perfect routines or strict plans, but real life. The walks, the workouts, the meals, the books I read, and everything in between.

Most importantly, I want to show that being in your 40s, 50s, 60s and beyond isn’t a barrier to being active, strong and full of life. If anything, it’s the perfect reason to take even better care of yourself.

If you’re on a similar journey whether you’re just starting out or just looking for a bit of inspiration! I hope this space encourages you to keep moving, keep nourishing yourself, and keep enjoying life.

I would genuinely love to hear your thoughts or answer any questions you may have - just leave a comment below or hit the contact button. You can also find me on Instagram at Tanya60Fit https://www.instagram.com/tanya60fit/.

Here’s to staying strong, eating well, and living and loving life!!!

Tanya x