Shannon Collins, known as The Gym Nurse, has shared practical tips to help individuals over 40 prevent fat gain. With her wealth of experience and a dedicated following of 150,000 on Instagram, she emphasizes the importance of mindfulness and awareness in fitness, particularly during significant life changes such as perimenopause.
Understanding Weight Gain Over 40
As we age, various factors contribute to weight gain, including hormonal changes, energy levels, and lifestyle habits. Shannon notes that many people make common mistakes when it comes to managing their fitness, especially women who may struggle with confidence as they navigate their changing bodies.
“It’s a small piece of the perimenopause puzzle,” Shannon explains, acknowledging that many women find themselves slowing down or continuing old eating habits when they should be more mindful about their diets and activity levels.
The Importance of Tracking Activity
One of Shannon’s key strategies for combating fat gain is to track daily activity. She emphasizes that while fitness watches may not capture every movement, they can provide valuable insights into overall activity levels.
In a recent Instagram post, she shared:
“A watch won’t pick up every little activity you do, but it shows a lot. And you can take an honest look at all the data and compare, especially if you’ve been wearing one for years.”
By monitoring her daily steps, Shannon ensures that she maintains adequate movement throughout the day, especially as her motivation to stay active has fluctuated.
Building Muscle for Long-Term Benefits
Shannon attributes much of her success in managing weight to her investment in building muscle over the years. She explains that having more muscle mass allows the body to burn calories more efficiently, even at rest. This muscle foundation can make it easier to avoid fat gain, even if calorie tracking isn’t a priority.
“Having more muscle has allowed me to burn calories when I’m not exercising, and my body isn’t as sensitive to gaining fat,” she states, highlighting the long-term benefits of strength training.
Community Engagement and Support
Since sharing her insights, Shannon’s post has resonated with many, garnering over 1,000 likes and sparking discussions among women seeking to boost their energy and maintain fitness. Comments reflect a shared understanding and enthusiasm for tracking steps and staying active, even post-menopause.
One user remarked:
“I love to track my steps. It has made me so much more self-aware and motivated to get my NEAT (Non-Exercise Activity Thermogenesis).”
Another noted:
“I’m 66, and I track my steps. I’m still working three days a week, constantly on my feet.”
These exchanges highlight a supportive community that encourages women to stay active and mindful about their health as they age.
Conclusion
Shannon Collins, The Gym Nurse, offers valuable insights for individuals over 40 looking to maintain their health and prevent fat gain. By focusing on activity tracking and muscle building, she provides simple yet effective strategies to navigate the changes that come with aging. Her approach not only promotes physical health but also fosters a sense of community and support among women facing similar challenges.
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