At 36, almost 37, lifting 135 pounds for a 4x8 at 118 pounds isnāt just impressiveāitās a flex. My strength-to-weight ratio is solid, and while I know that logically, I still have to remind myself: I am stronger than I believe. Iāve had many phases in my life where Iāve had to slow down, rest, and even stop training altogether. Whether it was because of MS, life stress, or just pure exhaustion, Iāve had seasons where my body needed a break. But I made a choiceāto prioritize my training, not just for aesthetics or strength but for optimizing neuroplasticity, for longevity, and to train like an athlete. Strength training isnāt just about muscle for me; itās about keeping my brain sharp, my body functional, and proving to myself that I can always come back stronger. And letās talk numbers. The average woman in her late 30s squats around 75-90% of her body weight for reps. Iām hitting 115% like itās my job. Most people my age arenāt thinking about progressive overload or movement efficiencyātheyāre dealing with chronic pain, fatigue, and the aches of getting older. But Iām out here pushing my limits, defying expectations, and proving that strength isnāt just for the young. Itās for the dedicated. Training like an athlete at this stage of life, with MS in the mix, isnāt always easy. But I know that resistance training improves muscle function, reduces fatigue, and even supports brain health. Lifting isnāt just something I do; itās part of how I take care of myself. Itās how I reclaim my power. So when doubt creeps in, when I wonder if Iām doing enough, I have to remind myself: I am stronger than I believe. Iāve rebuilt before, and I will again. Iām outlifting people half my age. Iām prioritizing strength, resilience, and longevity. Every rep, every set, every sessionāIām proving to myself that I am capable, powerful, and getting stronger every damn day.
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