2026 Fitness Goals as a Woman over 40

Hi Friends! 

I’m back for this Friday edition of my email, dedicated to exercise and movement! 

I’m not sure how the Friday emails will evolve this year, since I haven’t shared much about my workouts.  Food is easy for me to share, but exercise!? It honestly scares to show that side of myself.  Feels kind of “cringe” as the kids would say. Especially if I try to take photos of me exercising. Haha

But, my goal is to be more visible this year, even if it’s uncomfortable.  (I’m really trying to prove to you I’m a human, and not AI, lol)   

So, I think I’ll just start with my 2026 fitness goals!  

1. Goal #1 is to prioritize strength gains over shape or size goals.  It’s UNBELIEVABLE how much research and evidence we have now about the benefits of muscle for aging well.  I don’t want to be weak. I want to be strong till I’m 100.   So, this year, I’m using two measurable exercises to gauge my progress.  The hip thrust and the overhead press.   I’ll determine my 1 rep max (how heavy can I go).  I’ll write this down, and I’ll work all  year to improve that. *Check out my 5 day workout split here
2. Goal #2 is at least 2 workout sessions a week at home with just dumbbells and bands.  I love to go to the gym, but I also want to develop some home workouts that I can do anytime, anywhere.  I have a full home shoulder workout here, so next I’m going to work on a glute focused home workout. 
3. Goal #3 is to have more trail runs & hikes than road runs.  My husband gifted me an entry into the Bryce Canyon 50k for September of 2026.  I’m SO EXCITED about this! I’ve been wanting to run a 50K ever since I turned 50.  Now’s my chance.
4. Goal #4 is to practice daily burpee’s!  My kids and I are running the Utah Spartan this summer, and since I’ll never be able to climb a rope, I need to practice those burpee’s. Haha!

And I think that’s it for now! I’d love to hear from you.  What fitness goals do you have for 2026?  

Hope you enjoy! <3

Amy Roskelley