Aging is inevitable, but how we age is up to us. Many people approach their 40s and 50s with an underlying assumption that the best days of physical health are behind them. However, studies show that while our bodies may experience a natural decline in muscle mass, metabolism, and overall fitness, taking proactive steps to improve health can reverse much of this decline.
In fact, nearly 95% of older adults have at least one chronic disease, while 78% have two or more. These statistics are not just numbers—they represent the path many find themselves on when they let their health slip away in the busyness of life.
Muscle mass, for example, decreases by approximately 3-8% per decade after the age of 30, with the decline accelerating after 60. This leads to a higher risk of falls, fractures, and loss of independence. However, studies have shown that those who engage in regular resistance training can reduce the risk of these age-related declines, proving that it’s never too late to regain control of your health.
In this episode of the Health & Wealth Power Hour, Harlon Pickett sat down with Allan Misner, a health and lifestyle coach who focuses on helping individuals over 40 reclaim their health and fitness. Allan’s journey from being a highly successful corporate executive to transforming his life, both physically and mentally, offers powerful insights for anyone struggling to prioritize their health.
The Turning Point
Allan’s story starts out like many others. At 39, he was a C-suite executive at a Fortune 500 company, climbing the corporate ladder and “doing everything right” by societal standards. But there was a growing dissonance between his professional success and his physical health.
Despite his career achievements, Allan was out of shape, unfit, and dealing with the consequences of years of neglecting his health. The wake-up call came during a vacation when a casual game of volleyball left him nearly needing to call an ambulance. That moment of near collapse highlighted the harsh reality of his declining physical condition. For someone who once considered himself athletic, it was a sobering realization that something had to change.
From Corporate Success to Physical Failure
Allan’s journey is deeply relatable for anyone who’s ever poured themselves into their work while neglecting their health. Despite being a top executive, Allan’s corporate success came at a price—his physical well-being.
He admits that he had toxic relationships, drank too much, and lived off the convenience of hotel bars and business dinners while traveling for work. His “light bulb” moment wasn’t just about weight or fitness; it was about realizing that he had lost himself in the process. The turning point was when his daughter, a CrossFit enthusiast, asked him to watch her in a competition. He realized that he no longer wanted to be a mere spectator in her life—he wanted to participate.
The Power of Commitment
What makes Allan’s story different is the commitment he made following that realization. It wasn’t just about losing weight; it was about rediscovering his sense of purpose and self-worth. Allan’s decision to participate in a Tough Mudder event with his daughter became a symbolic milestone in his journey. It was more than a physical challenge—it was a commitment to himself and his health.
After 11 months of hard work, Allan lost 66 pounds of fat, gained 11 pounds of muscle, and successfully completed the Tough Mudder, hand in hand with his daughter. That moment was not only a triumph of physical endurance but also a reconnection with his role as a father and the man he aspired to be.
From Executive to Health Advocate
Allan didn’t stop there. His personal transformation inspired him to help others facing similar challenges. Recognizing the lack of resources for people over 40, Allan became a certified personal trainer, with a focus on functional aging and fitness nutrition. His mission? To be the coach he needed during his own struggle.
Now, Allan shares his experience and expertise through coaching and his podcast, “40+ Fitness.” His approach centers on sustainable health practices that address not just the physical but also the mental and emotional challenges that come with age.
Breaking Through Limiting Beliefs
One of the key takeaways from Allan’s journey is the importance of breaking through the mental barriers that prevent people from achieving their health goals. He categorizes these barriers into five mindsets:
- The Windshield – Looking in the rearview mirror at who you used to be rather than focusing on who you can become.
- The Copilot – Prioritizing everyone else’s needs over your own, especially common among parents and caregivers.
- The Petals – Trying something new for a short time and then quitting because results aren’t immediate.
- The Tires – Needing traction to stay motivated, but often giving up before building enough momentum.
- The Atlas – Needing a big goal or vision to stay motivated.
Allan’s story is a testament to the power of persistence and the importance of finding your “why.” He emphasizes that once you commit to a vision for your health, it becomes easier to navigate the ups and downs of the journey.
The Big Takeaway
Allan’s transformation wasn’t just about physical fitness; it was about taking control of your life at a time when many people feel like they’re losing it. His story serves as a reminder that it’s never too late to prioritize your health and reclaim your life.
Whether you’re a busy executive, a parent, or someone just trying to make it through the day, Allan’s story offers hope and practical advice for making sustainable changes. The key, he says, is commitment—there’s no turning back once you decide to put your health first.
If Allan Misner’s story resonates with you, check out his podcast, “40+ Fitness,” where he dives deeper into health strategies for those of us hitting that pivotal age. Or, even better, if you’d like to start your training journey but are unsure where to start, contact Allan through his website.
It’s not about being perfect; it’s about being committed. And as Allan’s journey proves, the rewards of that commitment can be life-changing.
Visit hwpowerhour.com to subscribe to the podcast and not miss out on any of our future episodes. Thank you for reading!