I've always lived life at a fast pace. Worked hard. Built a career before 30, skydived for 20 years. I loved to perform – and I was good at it.
Around 40, my body started to protest. My energy wasn't as automatic, and recovery took longer. I wanted to stay ahead and started investing in myself – sustainably, without extreme methods.
I found a form of exercise I enjoyed. Strength, yes. But also other movements that give energy instead of taking it away. When it's enjoyable, it gets done. And when it gets done, things happen.
At the same time, I became aware of the importance of protein, especially for women approaching 50. How muscle mass affects everything from energy to sleep. How we lose muscle faster than we think if we don't actively build and maintain it.
I increased my protein intake. And the difference crept up on me. More stable energy and better sleep. More stamina for both work and exercise. A feeling that my body was carrying me, instead of me carrying it around.
This year I turn 50, and I feel stronger than ever. I want to meet the next phase of life, menopause, with muscles, knowledge, and habits that will make the transition smoother and life richer. I love getting older – but I want to feel as young as possible.
That's what I want to inspire more people to do. To just start. To find their joy in movement. To give their body enough protein. To build strength as an investment in the future. It doesn't have to be complicated, it just needs to get done. Create conditions to long for movement.
My protein favorites?
I've tried most protein powders over the years; many have been too sweet. I love experimenting with powders in the kitchen, baking, mixing, finding new recipes.
Casein chocolate that turns into chocolate balls (You can find the recipe here!) disappear faster than you can say “are these really healthy?”.
Unflavored whey in our signature shake for my teenage daughters – it does the job in secret.
And pink grapefruit. My absolute favorite. With ice straight into a large glass. Period.
It's hard to choose, actually. I like most of them! But those three are always at the front of the pantry. Along with the creatine I take every morning.
