Fitness After 40: Local Experts Share Smart Workout Tips for Midlife Health

As we age, our fitness needs change significantly—a reality many Inglewood and Compton residents are discovering as they enter their 40s and beyond. Local fitness professionals are now emphasizing the importance of adapting workout routines to meet the body’s changing needs.

“After 40, maintaining fitness becomes much harder due to natural physical changes,” explains Maria Sanchez, fitness director at Inglewood Community Center. “One of the biggest challenges is losing muscle mass, which happens at about 1% per year for women, and somewhat less for men.”

This muscle loss directly impacts metabolism, making it harder for the body to burn fat effectively compared to younger years. For women experiencing menopause, hormonal shifts create additional challenges, often resulting in increased abdominal fat despite maintaining the same exercise routine.

“Many community members come to me frustrated because they’re doing exactly what worked in their 20s and 30s, but seeing completely different results,” Sanchez notes. “Sometimes they’ve gained 20-40 pounds without changing their habits at all.”

Strength Training: The New Priority

Fitness experts across Los Angeles County are now recommending a significant shift: more focus on strength training and less emphasis on cardio exercises like running or cycling.

“If you can incorporate strength training as the main component of your workout, you’ll see much better results in your everyday life,” says James Washington, personal trainer at SoFi Stadium’s employee wellness center. “Building muscle improves metabolic health, helping your body burn calories more efficiently even when you’re resting.”

This approach not only helps with weight management but also improves mobility, agility, and overall functionality—crucial factors for maintaining independence and quality of life as we age.

Local Resources for Adapted Fitness

Several Inglewood and Compton fitness centers now offer specialized programs for residents over 40, including Inglewood Senior Center’s “Strong Over 40” classes and Compton Recreation Department’s “Midlife Strength” workshops.

“Consistency is key, but it’s your personal consistency that matters,” explains Denise Johnson, fitness coordinator at Compton Recreation Department. “Some people thrive with five weekly sessions, while others see great results with just three 30-minute workouts. The important thing is taking those small, incremental steps.”

Johnson recommends alternating between different muscle groups throughout the week and incorporating full-body circuit training for maximum benefit. “Every major muscle group adds functionality to other movements. When you work different parts of the body systematically, you create a better, more well-rounded fitness foundation.”

Beyond the Scale

Local health professionals emphasize that fitness after 40 should be measured by more than weight or appearance.

“Don’t focus solely on the scale or mirror,” advises Dr. Marcus Chen of Inglewood Community Health Clinic. “Pay attention to how you feel daily—your mental clarity, physical energy, emotional balance, sleep quality, and appetite patterns.”

Community nutrition workshops at Martin Luther King Jr. Community Hospital also highlight the importance of protein intake for muscle maintenance and overall energy, especially important for residents managing busy work and family schedules.

“When you see improvements in these quality-of-life factors—craving nutritious foods, feeling motivated to move more, sleeping better—you’re succeeding, regardless of what the scale says,” Dr. Chen adds.

The Inglewood Parks and Recreation Department offers free wellness assessments for residents interested in d