Helen Skelton crossed the Great North Run finish line in 2:03:39 this weekend, but for the 43-year-old, the clock was never really the point.

The BBC1 morning presenter has never followed a single fitness formula. Instead, she leans on activities she actually enjoys, rather than sticking to a structured gym plan.  

One of the activities happens to be running. While talking to the Press Association, she spoke about how she does it for herself rather than just for the sake of it. 

"I’ve always said I exercise to keep my head peachy, rather than my bum peachy,' she explained. 'I do it for me – you’ve got to enjoy it. I can’t just go to the gym for going to the gym’s sake – I sort of wander around and chat to people, and I’m like, "I don’t really know why I’m here". I’m the kind of person that needs to have something to train for," Skelton told the Press Association, as reported by Women's Health.   

Helen Skelton recently ran the Great North Run on September 13th. The run takes place from  Newcastle to South Shields. 

However, besides running, the BBC1 presenter also likes to hike, swim, and play rounds of golf, giving her a mix of low-impact, full-body, and outdoor movement throughout the week. 

Whether it's an early morning run, a hike, or a round of golf, Skelton's approach to fitness has never been about sticking to one rigid plan. It's about staying consistent and choosing movement she actually enjoys. 

Why strength training becomes non-negotiable after 40s

The 40s bring changes that are hard to ignore. As perimenopause and menopause set in for most people, shifting hormones can affect bone density, metabolism, and mood. On top of that, a natural decline in muscle mass begins around this age.

Personal trainer Stephanie Woods, who coaches women over 40, explains that this muscle loss speeds up with inactivity, raising the risk of falls, fractures, and a slower metabolism. Resistance training helps counter that, preserving everyday movement and even supporting better mood and mental clarity. 

Starting later doesn't put anyone at a disadvantage. Woods considers the 40s an ideal decade to begin strength training, since small, steady efforts now can pay off for long-term health and independence.

While talking to Lou Mudge of Fit and Well, Woods suggested the exercises listed below. 

• Bodyweight squat, 3 sets of 10 to 15 reps: builds lower body strength and balance, mirroring everyday movements like standing up from a seat.
• Push-up, 3 sets of 10 to 15 reps: strengthens the chest, shoulders, triceps, and core, with an incline option for beginners.
• Bird dog, 3 sets of 10 to 15 reps per side: a gentle, joint-friendly move that improves balance and posture.

Building strength in your 40s isn't just about right now. It's an investment in staying mobile and independent for years to come. 

Written by

Chionia Libania Colaco