Can I become toned at 51

[DoubleBoubles]

I have been relatively fit and somewhat toned at various points in my life.

However, it’s all gone to pot over the last 10 years and I completely lost any kind of motivation.

I'm probably about 2 stone overweight but have completely lost any muscle tone I once had.

I know it will be more difficult now I’m 51 and menopausal but is it feasible?

Im looking for some advice on what to do for the best please? I’m thinking g weights with some walking to start? I am a member the gym but haven’t been for ages. Need to get motivated

Thanks for any advice or if anyone has also been in the same situation and come out the other side

I started regular hot yoga at age 56, and have got super toned fit & strong.

so I say YES YOU CAN.

Yes, I was about 3 stone overweight and 54 when I started strength training. Over time I lost the weight and gained muscle and strength. Looking toned is a combination of increasing muscle and decreasing the stuff that covers it from view, ie fat. I’d look for group strength training gym rather than a regular gym where you have to know what you're doing and motivate yourself, there are loads of women only training gyms where I live so have a look and see what there is close to you. That way you have the encouragement of a community and the guidance of a coach.

Of course you can! Also, all toned is is having low body fat and growing muscles. So eat well, lift heavy, and you’ll get to where you need to be!

join your closest gym and have a couple of PT sessions so you can get comfortable with the machines. You can also do at home yoga with YouTube to get your flexibility up. Walk 10k+ steps a day.

Thank you for these comments and advice. I will take it all on board
i I am a member of a gym, just don’t go so I will have a look at what pt sessions they offer so I can learn how to use the weights and develop a programme

I started gym just did a little and often and built up. Defo works

I'm in my 50s and I know several women my age who are wonderfully toned - sadly I'm not one of them 😆I believe it's weights that help.

I just started Caroline Girvan weights videos with the same thing in mind, OP. Thought I might be able to make it work if I can do it at home. Am about a stone overweight. Good luck to us!!

Yes. I’ve done it although I’m 49, 50 next month. Lost 3 stone by eating no carbs and started lifting weights. It’s done wonders

To add its not just lifting weights, you need to eat enough protein to support muscle growth.

Yes! I’m 49 and have got really toned recently. I do weights at the gym - usually about 3 times a week, am only there for 30-45 mins each time and it’s transformed my body.

Yes! Creatine, Protein and choose weight bearing exercise over Cardio. (Although cardio is still good)

check out Alicia, she did quite a transformation between late 40s and early 50s
https://www.instagram.com/aliciae?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&stkn=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

I'd love to look as good as her before pics!

Thanks my goal is her physique in 2023 I want the muscle and some definition but not as much definition as she has now. Incredible transformation though

How often do you do it, if you don’t mind me asking. I need to tone up as well…

I’m 55 in March, December last year I quit drinking started strength training with a PT and I’m fitter now than I was before kids 25 years ago. So .. yes you absolutely can! I’m a member of our local David Lloyd and as a family we make full use of the gym, pool, badminton courts and spa. PT sessions make you commit, learn what works for you and embrace it. Good luck!

Yes you definitely can.
I started strength training following a diagnosis of arthritis and osteopenia at 54.
Having not stepped in a gym in over twenty years and not having the first clue how to use weights I did some PT sessions last year.
It has transformed me, I feel fit, strong and a lot more confident about aging. I’m also back doing yoga for first time in years.
My greatest fear is hitting 60 and not being fit and able to travel, hike, chase energetic grandkids etc.

I have weights and a barbell at home and try to do at least 3 workouts a week and never ever thought I’d say this but I love it.

Yes, you can.

I was very overweight and didn’t even consider getting fit and toned till I was in my early 60s. Now go to the gym regularly, have clearly defined muscles and a tight firm abdomen, and wear size 6-8 clothes.

I started in my late sixties… didn’t think I’d get anywhere near what I have actually achieved.

i started so slow, and aimed to top my own targets, even if it was an extra rep, or an added weight.

i found keeping a record, motivating.

The part that surprised me was how much my mental health improved, and even my self confidence, which was very low due to historical events.

Consistency, determination and motivation spurred me on, as well as a desire to stay as independent as I can, for as long as possible.

Also aside from sharing above anonymously on Mumsnet, I don’t tell anyone that I do spend time and energy on self improvement.
That way there’s less chance of expectation and or judgement from others.

Yes, start now! You will have a bit of muscle memory. Enough protein, and also creatine should help.