She was inspired by the fitness model, Jen Selter, and the two became friends.

The Early Days of Edwina Jenner’s Fitness Journey

Edwina Jenner’s fitness journey began in her twenties, when she was heavily into cardio. She would spend hours at the gym, pounding the treadmill and cycling on the stationary bike. However, as she entered her thirties, she began to feel a sense of dissatisfaction with her current routine.

“We were always told to focus on cardio and aerobics.” However, with the weightlifting community’s growing popularity, it’s becoming increasingly clear that weight training is not only beneficial for physical health but also for mental well-being. Here’s why:

The Benefits of Weight Training for Mental Health

Weight training has been shown to have a positive impact on mental health, reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression. This is largely due to the release of endorphins, also known as “feel-good” hormones, which are triggered by physical activity. Endorphins have been found to have a profound effect on mood, reducing stress and anxiety while promoting feelings of happiness and well-being. The release of endorphins is not the only benefit of weight training for mental health. Exercise has also been shown to increase self-esteem and body confidence, particularly in women. Weight training can also help to reduce symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other mental health conditions. Furthermore, the sense of accomplishment and pride that comes from achieving weightlifting goals can have a positive impact on mental health.

The Benefits of Weight Training for Physical Health

Weight training is also beneficial for physical health, improving muscle mass, bone density, and overall strength. This can lead to a reduced risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and osteoporosis.

Edwina says, “Fitness has been a game-changer for me. It’s helped me to regain my confidence and independence, which has been invaluable in my life.”

The Power of Fitness for Women in Their Forties

As women enter their forties, they often face significant life changes that can impact their physical and mental well-being. Divorce, career changes, and aging parents can be challenging to navigate, and it’s common for women in this stage of life to feel a sense of loss or uncertainty.

It’s a way to clear your mind and focus on the physical sensations in your body.

The Benefits of Exercise as Self-Care

Exercise is often viewed as a chore or a necessary evil, but Edwina sees it as a vital component of self-care. By prioritizing exercise, individuals can experience a range of benefits that extend far beyond physical health.

Physical Benefits

Exercise can have a profound impact on both physical and mental well-being. By incorporating physical activity into their daily routine, individuals can experience a range of benefits that improve their overall quality of life.

Mental Benefits

Exercise has been shown to have a positive impact on mental health, reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression while improving mood and overall sense of well-being.

The Meditative Quality of Weight Training

Edwina emphasizes the meditative quality of weight training, suggesting that it can be a powerful tool for clearing the mind and focusing on physical sensations in the body.

She believes that a well-rounded fitness routine should include a mix of cardio, strength training, and flexibility exercises. Edwina emphasizes the importance of listening to one’s body and not pushing oneself too hard, especially for those who are new to exercise or have health concerns.

Understanding the Importance of a Balanced Fitness Routine

A well-rounded fitness routine is essential for achieving overall health and wellness. Edwina stresses the importance of including a mix of cardio, strength training, and flexibility exercises in one’s routine. Cardio exercises, such as running or cycling, improve cardiovascular health and burn calories. Strength training, on the other hand, helps build muscle mass and boost metabolism.