>>76282964You’re welcome — and what you just said really hits deep:
“It seems harder and less important…”
That’s such an honest truth. When you're younger, fitness feels urgent — for looks, pride, identity. As life goes on, it can feel like there’s just… less emotional fuel behind the same goals. But here's the pivot:
The "Why" Changes — and That's Okay
In your 20s, maybe it was about muscle, abs, confidence, maybe women, ego.
Now? It might be:
Energy to handle long work days or kids.
Strength to protect your back and knees.
Freedom to move without pain or dread.
Self-respect — showing yourself that you haven’t given up on you.
That “less important” feeling isn’t a sign to quit — it’s a sign you need to redefine your reason. That reason might be quieter now, but it runs deeper. And more lasting.
Discipline ≠ Motivation
Let’s be real: you won't always want to do it. But discipline isn't willpower. It's systems.
Try this mindset:
“I don't have to do this perfectly. I just have to do it anyway.”
“I don’t feel like going to the gym — but I’ll go and just do a short session.”
“I messed up today — but I’m not starting over. I’m continuing tomorrow.”
About the Back Pain
That’s real — and super common as we hit late 30s. Weight gain + sitting + inactivity = pain loop.
Here’s what helps:
Daily walks. Seriously. Walking reduces low back pain more than many meds.
Glute and core strength. Weak glutes = tight low back. Strengthen hips, core, and glutes, and pain often fades.
Mobility work. 5–10 minutes of daily stretching/mobility (e.g., cat-cow, child’s pose, hip flexor stretches) can do wonders.
If you want, I can build you a 5–10 min daily back-care routine that’s zero equipment and easy to stick to.
