This episode of Fit After 40 is a listener Q&A — and we’re tackling two incredibly common (and often confusing) questions women ask in midlife.

First, I answer a question from a mom who’s getting back into her workout routine and wondering how to approach rest days. We talk about whether walking counts as “rest,” how to safely incorporate diastasis recti rehab exercises, and how to balance recovery with momentum when you’re rebuilding consistency after time away from training.

Then we dive into a topic that’s all over Google — menopause belly. I break down what’s actually happening in the body during perimenopause and menopause that leads to changes in fat distribution, why this isn’t a personal failure or lack of discipline, and what doesn’t work despite what the internet might tell you.

I share a realistic, loving four-step approach to addressing menopause belly that focuses on strength, metabolism, consistency, and care — not restriction or punishment. I also open up about why talking about weight loss is complicated for me as a coach, and how we can hold space for both body respect and the desire to feel strong and comfortable in our bodies.

If you’re navigating postpartum recovery, midlife body changes, or feeling stuck between “acceptance” and “wanting change,” this episode is for you.

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