Meals, Muscles and Men with Lynn Sederlof-Airisto (part 1)
In this episode, Jess engages in a candid conversation with Lynn Sederlof-Airisto, a fitness expert and podcaster from Helsinki, Finland, who shares her transformative journey through midlife challenges, including fitness, menopause, and self-acceptance. Lynn's story is not just about physical fitness but also touches on the emotional and psychological aspects of navigating life as a divorced woman in her 50s who is reentering the dating scene, all while facing the realities of aging and body changes.
Lynn paints a vivid picture of her early athletic life, from playing field hockey and lacrosse to bodybuilding post-pregnancy. Despite her dedication to group fitness classes, she encountered surprising shifts in her physique as she transitioned into menopause, leading her to explore the science behind muscle maintenance and fat distribution. They delve into her personal experiences with body image and the societal pressures of looking young, especially in the context of dating, highlighting the unique difficulties faced by women in midlife.
Through extensive research and experimentation, Lynn discovered the importance of weight training over traditional cardio to combat muscle loss due to hormonal changes. She shares practical insights on how to reshape one’s body and mindset towards fitness, emphasizing that it’s not just about maintaining a youthful appearance but also about enhancing overall well-being. Lynn's approach also includes actionable advice on nutrition, particularly emphasizing the role of protein in diet and the need for systematic strength training as we age.
Jess and Lynn explore myths around weight training—particularly the misconception that light weights in group classes are effective for building muscle. Instead, Lynn advocates for heavier lifting that stimulates the type 2 muscle fibers crucial for maintaining strength and functionality. Her advocacy for awareness around the impacts of menopause on physical health forms a crucial part of this discussion, addressing common misconceptions about aging and fitness.
HIGHLIGHTS:
1:18 Lynn's Fitness Journey
2:38 The Impact of Menopause
5:31 Hormone Replacement Therapy Insights
11:03 Addressing Women's Health Issues
13:00 The Conversation Around Sex
14:40 Nutrition and Eating Habits
16:37 The Role of Protein
28:33 Myths About Weight Training
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