Ep 46: Researchers have been studying the effects of strength training for more than 40 years and have identified multiple ways it can benefit older adults, including maintaining muscle mass, improving mobility, and increasing the healthy years of our lives. So in this episode I am thrilled to sit down with Kayla Neal, a true trailblazer in fitness and wellness. Her energy is contagious and if anyone can convince us to do some load bearing exercise, Kayla can! With over 30 years of experience as a Certified Personal Trainer and owner of Star Cycle in Santa Barbara California, which she has recently sold, and a leading voice in women’s health, Kayla brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to our conversation.In this episode, we dive into Kayla’s journey—how embracing fitness from a young age has been a lifelong investment in her health and vitality. We explore the unique challenges and opportunities women face in midlife, peri-menopause and menopause, and how this stage can actually be a time of empowerment and newfound freedom. Kayla shares why it’s so important for women to prioritize self-care, not just for themselves, but so they can show up with energy and presence for the people they love.We also discuss the importance of reevaluating our approach to exercise as we age—cutting back on certain routines, ramping up strength training, and focusing on sustainable wellness practices rather than restrictive diet trends. Kayla is redefining what it means to thrive in midlife, championing habits that last and supporting women through every stage of their journey.The store cupboard staple for this episode is versatile lentils!ResourcesFollow Kayla Socials https://www.instagram.com/kaylajohnsonfitness/How can strength training build healthier bodies as we age? | National Institute on Aginghttps://www.nia.nih.gov/news/how-can-strength-training-build-healthier-bodies-we-ageEpisode with information about bone health https://creators.spotify.com/pod/profile/lyn-sharkey/episodes/21-The-Lovely-Bones-e2c29rehttps://creators.spotify.com/pod/profile/lyn-sharkey/episodes/23-Considering-Calcium---Bone-Health--Much-More-e2fl5nbDahl Recipe https://www.noracooks.com/red-lentil-dahl/https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/collection/healthy-lentil-recipesSoup recipes with lentils https://www.lynsharkeynutrition.ie/2021/10/17/carrot-sweet-potato-butternut-squash-red-lentils/https://www.lynsharkeynutrition.ie/2021/09/20/broccoli-leek-and-lentil-soup/The Encylopaedia of Healing Foods by Dr Michael Murray, Dr Joseph Pizzorno with Lara Pizzorno MA, LMTMusic composed by cascreativearts, copyright Lyn Sharkey Nutrition. Lyn's website www.lynsharkeynutrition.ie