What Is the Best Fitness for Women Over 40? Why Low-Impact Wins Every Time

If you’re a woman over 40, you’ve probably noticed something: the fitness advice out there wasn’t made for you.

You’re expected to jump into high-intensity circuits, lift heavy, and push through the pain—all in the name of results. And yet… those approaches often leave you feeling sore, unmotivated, or injured. Not stronger. Not more energized. And definitely not excited to keep going.

I see it all the time. That’s why I created something different.

The best fitness for women over 40 isn’t about punishing yourself. It’s about smart, low-impact movement that builds strength, balance, and energy for the long haul.

It’s not flashy. But it works. Let me explain why.

fitness for women over 40

Why Low-Impact Movement Makes All the Difference

When you’re in your 40s and beyond, your body’s needs shift. You may notice hormonal changes, less joint resilience, or slower recovery. But that doesn’t mean you can’t get stronger—it just means you need a better way.

Low-impact workouts like Pilates give you that.

They’re joint-friendly. Sustainable. And surprisingly powerful.

You won’t find burpees or high-intensity circuits here. You’ll find movements that focus on deep strength, good alignment, core stability, and real-life function.

As Lesley F. puts it:

“Christine's classes focus on all the important facets of fitness—strength, balance, cardio, stretching, correct breathing, posture. It’s always an excellent total body workout.”

Balance, Planks, and Core Strength—Why They Matter More Than Ever

Let’s talk about balance work, planks, and core strength—three pillars in every class I teach.

You might think of balance as something small. But it’s one of the first things to go as we age—and one of the most important to maintain.

Strong balance helps you:

  • Prevent falls and injuries

  • Feel confident walking, hiking, or even vacuuming

  • Stay steady on stairs, icy sidewalks, and uneven terrain

“I’ve been doing Christine’s Pilates classes for several years and love how she finds new ways to challenge my muscles, balance and coordination. Her Pilates classes are great for body and mind!”
Marie Y.

And then there’s planks—one of the most misunderstood movements in fitness. You don’t need to hold a plank for minutes to get benefits. When taught with proper alignment, planks build deep core strength, shoulder stability, and even support your pelvic floor. All critical for women 40+.

That’s why my approach to core isn’t about flattening your stomach. It’s about building a core that supports you.

Core Strength Is More Than Just Abs

When your core is strong, everything becomes easier. You sit taller. You walk with more confidence. You feel supported from the inside out. And—yes—you may even notice your clothes fit better.

“Since starting Pilates I feel stronger in anything I do—swimming, hiking, tennis, vacuuming! Christine’s teaching and cueing is amazing and really helps to bring awareness to your body.”
Amy H.

“I'm down 20 lbs in the last year and it’s all from managing my eating and prioritizing myself, including making movement (walking/Pilates) part of my routine.”
Carleigh

These kinds of results don’t come from punishment. They come from consistency that feels good.

christine kirkland pilates

The EASE Method: A Real Alternative to Toxic Fitness

I built my method—the EASE Method—because I was tired of the fitness world ignoring the realities of women over 40.

You’re not here for extremes. You’re here to feel:

  • Less joint pain

  • Stronger in your everyday life

  • More energized, not depleted

  • Like yourself again

And that’s exactly what low-impact strength, mindful movement, and core-focused classes can give you.

“I had been having low back pain when sleeping and after walking only short distances… After your first class I slept pain-free for the first time in forever. We hiked on Sunday and same—no pain!!!”
Amy S.

What You Really Want from a Fitness Program at 40+

Here’s what I’ve learned from the hundreds of women I’ve worked with:

You’re not chasing a six-pack. You’re chasing energy, strength, confidence, and ease.

You want:
✅ Workouts that support your joints, not stress them
✅ A strong, functional core
✅ Better posture and less back pain
✅ Flexibility, balance, and coordination that actually carry over into daily life
✅ And workouts that fit into your life—not take it over

As Lynn says:

“I am so grateful I can count on Christine’s classes four times a week. It’s the only time I can squeeze in for myself. No matter how tired I am, I always feel better and more energized after.”

Want to Try a Class That Was Actually Built for You?

If you’re curious about how this all works in real life, I’d love to give you try the studio which includes movements that support your joints, strengthens your core, and leave you feeling better, not broken.

👉 Try the 7 Day Free Trial

You don’t have to push harder. You just have to move smarter.

And when you do? Your energy, your posture, your waistline—even your confidence—start to change.

Because the best fitness for women over 40 isn’t about extremes. It’s about showing up for yourself—in a way that finally feels good.


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Is Pilates Good for Weight Loss? Here’s What Women Need to Know