Fitness Secrets of a 45-Year-Old Dancer

At 45, personal trainer and dancer Emily Stephenson shares her refreshing fitness philosophy. Forget weight loss; she prioritizes strength, confidence, and overall well-being, proving age is no barrier to feeling and looking your best.

Body & Mind Approach

Emily Stephenson, a dancer and personal trainer, has a vibrant outlook on fitness. She emphasizes feeling strong and confident, moving away from outdated weight-loss goals. “I want people to feel strong, confident and uplifted without focusing on the dated principles of working out just to lose weight,” she said. Having a deeper understanding of her body has come with age and experience.

Workout Variety

Stephenson maintains her sculpted physique through a combination of practices. This involves a mixture of strength training, dance, barre, and mobility exercises. She usually goes to the gym two or three times a week, focusing on free weights, light cardio, and abdominal work. “I take a dance class at least once a week in addition to my The Dancer Body workout classes I teach; this might be jazz, hip hop or an aerobics class – I love to try new things,” she said.

Rest, Diet, and Wellness

Stephenson prioritizes rest, ensuring at least one rest day per week. Her diet is relaxed and balanced, focusing on healthy foods. She avoids processed foods and alcohol. “I eat healthily most of the time – lots of salads, buddha bowls, and protein packed stir-fries with fish, chicken, or beef,” Stephenson shared. This is combined with supplements, journaling, meditation, and sauna use.

Daily Rituals

Stephenson incorporates daily practices like dry brushing and Epsom salt baths. These routines support her recovery and overall well-being, especially considering her busy life. “I love to read and all of these habits help keep me balanced, focused, and in a positive mindset,” she explained.

“When it comes to food, I keep things relaxed and balanced. I eat healthily most of the time – lots of salads, buddha bowls, and protein packed stir-fries with fish, chicken, or beef. Eating well helps me feel my best and keeps me fuelled for work and training.”

—Emily Stephenson, Personal Trainer

A 2023 study shows that regular exercise, even in midlife, significantly reduces the risk of chronic diseases (CDC).

Holistic Approach

Stephenson embraces a holistic approach, recognizing the importance of diet, lifestyle, and mental health in achieving overall wellness. She believes in continuous growth and learning, making her fitness journey an ongoing process.

Stephenson’s advice promotes a sustainable, empowering approach to fitness. Her focus on movement, healthy choices, and mental well-being provides a blueprint for thriving in midlife and beyond.