Getting back into a regular, fun exercise routine inspired me to create “Pushing 40.” The idea is simple: 40 seconds or 40 reps of moves like plank, push-ups, crunches, squats, leg lifts, heel lifts, and side bends. No equipment necessary. Sometimes, life gets busy, and even thinking about a long workout feels overwhelming. I needed something quick, easy, and stress-free that I could do at home, even on my busiest days. Consider this: “Pushing 40” isn’t meant to replace a full workout. Instead, it’s a way to stay consistent and remind myself that doing something is always better than doing nothing.

Consistency builds strength—inside and out. For the next 40 days, I’m “Pushing 40.” A quick, no-excuses mini workout to keep me moving, even on the hardest days.

What is “Pushing 40”?

“Pushing 40” is a simple workout built around the number 40: 40 seconds or 40 reps of basic movements like plank, push-ups, crunches, squats, leg lifts, heel lifts, and side bends. You don’t need equipment, a gym, or even a full hour.

Why it works for everyday people:

Quick & Accessible – Perfect for busy days when time is short.
No Experience Needed – The moves are simple, familiar, and easy to modify.
Consistency Builder – It’s about doing something daily, not everything.
Flexible – Use it as a warm-up, a supplement to your regular workouts, or your “at least I moved today” plan.

At its core (see what I did there?) “Pushing 40” is about showing up for yourself in a way that’s doable. Because real strength doesn’t come from perfection, it comes from consistency.

Why “Pushing 40”?

With school back in session, new activities for my children and my own volunteerism, it’s seemed like I had even less time for working out. Throw Lupus into the mix and that’s a recipe for a salad of excuses.  Despite life’s schedule changes, I refused to let that be the reason I didn’t prioritize my health. If anything, it was motivation for me to prioritize my health because working out is just as important for the mind as it is for the body.

For the next 40 days, I’m going to be “Pushing 40” to get back into a consistent routine and maybe even discover some new strengths. Who’s with me?

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