F/40/5’5 [150 – 170lbs] Visible progress despite major setbacks

In less than two years, I (40F) gained 20lbs and lost lots of fitness to multiple illnesses, a chipped patella, two herniated discs, two major surgeries, caregiver stress to a dying mom with Alzheimer’s and cancer, and intense grief following her death in July.

But in the 6 months following her death and my last surgery, I made some big health improvements. With consistent programming (very heavy lifts + zone 2 + HIIT) my resting HR has dropped from mid 60s to mid 50s, my energy is higher than ever, and today some new muscle definition just appeared: my serratus anterior (those ripples that look like ribs).

As much padding as I have, most of my added muscle just makes me look thicker (for instance, in 4 months my shoulders have increased from 39.5-42”, butt from 42”-44”, and bra band from 34 to 36), so I’m proud to see these guys come through.

Don’t give up. Just keep going.

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