Turning 50+ is not a winding-down phase. It is the perfect time to lace up your shoes, step out, and discover what you are truly capable of! If you think it is too late to try a new sport or explore a different trail, it is time to map a different course.
Overcome the "Too Late" Mindset
It is easy to let self-doubt dictate our choices. Many women feel that their window for starting new physical pursuits has closed. Local writer, 'recovering lawyer & practicing parent' and adventurer Paula Colman is on a mission to shatter that mindset. Her goal when writing about Utah is to help women remove the barriers to saying "yes".
Paula, her husband Howard and three children moved to Utah from Houston in 2010.
"I could barely get down a cat track,” Paula laughed, “So when we moved here, I had to decide whether to study for the bar exam or take ski lessons. I think I made the right choice. I started skiing with some girlfriends I met here, and discovered that by going out regularly with them, I not only learned to ski better, I swore less. 'SkiMums' was hatched after a call to Snowbird, and it offered us free lessons for ten seasons. That led to even more girlfriends and adventures and the need to keep up.
Build Strength and Community
Staying active is key for longevity. Moving your body boosts cardiovascular health, builds crucial bone density, and increases your daily energy levels. In addition to active pursuits, Paula works out indoors at The Smart Fit Method; outdoors, she wears a weighted vest and gear by Omorpho.
"Women over 50 are realizing they don't need to focus so much on cardio; muscle strength is more important," Paula says. "Get stronger to play longer."
Finish it by building community. Joining a hiking club, a beginner's ski lesson or just getting on a trail introduces you to an encouraging support system.
"Whatever your background, age or situation, when you step foot on a trail or groomed run, you share something with those women beside you," Paula explained. "We give ourselves permission to put everything else aside and enjoy the moment and start to believe anything is possible."
Remove Your Barriers
Taking that first leap does not require extreme measures. Remove barriers with small, manageable actions, and keep an open mind. "Utah has taught me that saying 'yes' is usually the better choice," she says. "It may take me down a path I have not been down before, but I usually come out upright."
You don’t need to be the best person on the trail— showing up is what truly matters. As Paula puts it, the outdoor community in Utah is incredibly welcoming. People are eager to offer encouragement and celebrate the efforts of anyone giving it a try.
Take Your First Step Today
Your 50s represent an exciting chapter filled with possibilities, a time to clear out the excuses and celebrate everything your body and mind can do.
Are you ready to jump into the fun? Grab a friend, step outside, and start your next great adventure today!
Follow Paula's adventures @harpo_utah on Instagram, skiutah.com and visitutah.com.