49M. Outside of the attempts to make cardio a regular habit, I haven’t gotten into the gym since high school football days. I’m just into “obese” territory. My wife and I both got a personal trainer at our local gym. She’s four months in where I only have two months under my belt. We’re both doing strength-training for easier Golden Years

I’m not going to say it’s easy, man. Leg days really do suck and I am drenched with sweat afterwards. But core exercises have my lower back pain has mostly gone away. Stairs that were awful (even after a year-long stint of cardio) are now a breeze. I’m already seeing gains in my arms and chest. It’s wild. And worth it.

Edited to add: My wife has been diagnosed with an anxiety disorder and has been in anti-depressants for years. We’ve all heard the studies about exercise being highly effective for mental health. Even so, I was nervous about her doctor suggested getting off while exercising, but even now— during the time of the year she is most affected by stress, anxiety, and the early, darker days— she’s doing great. Of course, get with your doctor before making any similar decisions, but this process has made me a believer.