By: Jamie Carter
Big shocker, right? Celebrities like Reese Witherspoon, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Jennifer Lopez are flaunting their toned bodies in swimsuits, all while being over 40. A quick glance at my social media feed shows that it’s not just the stars; everyday 40- and 50-somethings are sharing their fitness journeys. We see six-pack selfies, marathon finishes, CrossFit achievements, and even green juice recipes—all in pursuit of that seemingly ageless physique. These days, if you’re not rocking a bikini after 40, it feels like you’ve completely missed the mark.
So, here’s the burning question: When did it become the norm for us to be ridiculously fit after 40? When did Gen X evolve into Gen P90-X? Is this relentless pursuit of a sculpted body a sign of progress or have we simply lost sight of what it means to embrace our age? While I have nothing against those who choose to flaunt their fitness, I can’t help but recall a time when mothers could just be themselves. No need for skinny jeans, crop tops, or bulging biceps—just comfortable curves and forgiving elastic waistbands that allowed for a third slice of pizza without the anxiety of a SoulCycle session the next day.
It would be easy to point fingers at the media for reshaping our perceptions of post-40 bodies. Recently, a photo of Linda Evans surfaced, showcasing her in a less-than-flattering light. Just as the public started to rally behind the 50-year-old actress for being “authentic” and “real,” her team threatened legal action, claiming the image had been edited to make her look worse. Meanwhile, she posed on a beach in a daring swimsuit, as if to assert that looking her age is unacceptable.
That’s why I found it so inspiring when Marissa Lee recently declared on a talk show that she is unapologetically enjoying her life. “Let me say this clearly,” she stated. “I’ve gained 20 pounds, and I love food.” The former model and actress went on to share the struggles of her friends who are perpetually striving for that idealized body, often resorting to unhealthy habits just to maintain their weight. She also relayed an experience at a dinner party where she indulged in bread and oil, followed by a decadent dessert. “One woman looked at me in horror, and I thought, ‘That’s your problem, not mine.’”
You go, Marissa! You might think you’re not perfect, but you’re still fabulous. Life is fleeting—much like a scoop of ice cream on a summer day—so why not savor it?
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In summary, the shift in expectations for bodies after 40 raises important questions about societal norms and individual choices. While fitness and health are commendable pursuits, the dialogue around body image should also celebrate authenticity and self-acceptance.
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