Don’t blame age. Blame your habits!

Last weekend I went with my youngest daughter to a couple of birthday parties. What shocked me wasn't the deafening noise of 15 six-year-olds. It was seeing many parents in their late thirties to mid-forties who physically resembled people a decade older. Let me be clear: this isn't only about appearance, like wrinkles or being overweight; it's about health indicators, such as restricted movement, low energy, and discomfort doing what should be simple physical tasks.

I’m not trying to be a douche, it’s not judgment, it’s concern. For them. For their kids. For the version of themselves they’re slowly letting slip away. There is no reason to accept that parenthood and age adds centimetres to our stomachs.

Let’s be honest. Most people aren’t “getting old.” They’re just letting themselves go. But it’s easier to say “must be my age” than admit:

• You’ve spent the last decade avoiding stairs

• You treat walking like a punishment

• Thinking that sushi with its sugary rice and minimal protein counts as a "healthy dinner”

Here are some alarming facts about the average 40+ year old today (according to research):

• The average adult gains 5- 10 kgs every 5 years

• Can’t do a single pull-up (nearly 1 in 3 can’t even attempt one)

• Stares at screens 6+ hours a day

• Walks less than 4,000 steps daily (yep, the average is that low)

• Eats more sugar than protein

• Can’t squat or deadlift their own bodyweight

• Says they’re just “not as young anymore”

Sorry to break it to you, but that’s not ageing - that’s neglect! It’s slow-motion abandonment. This isn’t a rant. It’s a reality check because I see it often now: Friends, colleagues, even clients cruising into decay, then blaming time.
A mate of mine recently told me he hadn’t done a push-up since high school. He’s 42. And his back hurts when he loads the dishwasher. That’s not age. That’s what happens when you stop moving.

Here’s the thing:

I'm in my 40s, still training 6 days a week, and lifting weights comparable to what I could manage a decade ago. I’m smarter and in some lifts, even stronger. This isn't exceptional; it's what our bodies are designed to maintain when properly cared for.

Do you need to train like me? Absolutely not.
But let’s not pretend the only two options are CrossFit champion or couch potato. This isn’t about being extreme (you can work you up to that if you want). You don’t need to be a “gym bro”, a keto zealot, or do cold plunges at 5am.
You just need to stop blaming the calendar for choices you keep making. There’s a middle ground. And it’s a hell of a lot better than watching your body slowly break down because “that’s life.”

This matters beyond just how you look or feel today. The habits you've built by 40 typically determine your mobility, independence, and quality of life in your 60s, 70s, and beyond. The decline isn't linear, it's exponential when neglect compounds.

So here’s a cheeky little question for you:
Will your future self thank you for how you’re treating your body today? Will you be stronger? Sharper? More mobile? Or are you going to be hunched over, tired, and quietly disappointed?

Start here:
Let’s not worry about all the stuff you see on Instagram; let’s start with a few really easy things. There are so many levels, but if you’re feeling “old,” try a few of these:

• Walk 20–30 mins a day - forget the 10k steps story. Simply go for a 10-15 walk after every meal.

• Add some bodyweight movements: squats, deadlifts, push-ups. Even once a week helps.

• Eat protein with EVERY meal!!!

• Go to bed earlier (Netflix isn’t going anywhere).

• Avoid social media/emails for the first 30 minutes and last 60 minutes of your day.

• Get outside and get some sunlight in your eyes and on your skin.

Don’t wait for motivation. Build a routine.
You don’t need a life overhaul. You just need to stop pretending age is the problem. Don’t wait for a health scare. Be your own wake-up call.
Getting older is inevitable. Falling apart isn’t.
You don’t need a new body. You just need to stop abandoning the one you’ve got.

Your future self is watching.

Make them proud.

Poddles of the Week

I’ve got 2 on topic for you this week. The first is easy to digest and act on.
The second is a bit more in-depth, but for those who like to go down rabbit holes, this is for you.

Exercise Scientist’s Masterclass On Longevity - Dr Mike Israetel on Modern Wisdom

This week, I'm sharing a game-changing podcast episode featuring Dr. Mike Israetel, who dives deep into the science of longevity. Forget the hype and fad diets – Dr. Israetel breaks down longevity into two critical components: lifespan (how long you live) and, more importantly, healthspan (the quality of your life during those years).

He explores everything from the impact of diet and exercise to the surprising roles of sleep, stress, and even social connections. Plus, he touches on the mind-blowing future possibilities of AI and biotechnology in extending human potential.

Simple Habits That Could Add Decades To Your Life - Dr Peter Attia on Modern Wisdom

In this insightful podcast, Dr. Peter Attia introduces his "marginal decade" concept; envisioning the quality of life you want in your final years, then working backwards.
His research reveals that VO2 max and strength are more powerful predictors of longevity than most trendy biohacks.

Rather than obsessing over minor details, Attia advocates mastering the basics: structured exercise (especially Zone 2 training), adequate protein, and strategic eating patterns.

Purchase I’m Loving

While we’re on the topic of longevity - I’m gonna geek out a little on barefoot shoes.
I know what you’re thinking, not those hideous shoes that look like gloves. I did actually run in Vibram’s for many years and they were great but I agree, not great looking.

Introducing Vivobarefoot shoes.
I’ve used the Primus Lights for years, but recently bought a pair of the Motus Strengths. I use them to work out every day and they look great.

There are huge advantages to training with zero-drop and no padding (barefoot) shoes. I’ve corrected decades of ankle injuries from football by using shoes like this. It’s good that your feet need to use all your muscles instead of getting lazy and relying on shoes for support and cushioning.

PS - I’m here

If the main article today resonated with you but you don’t know where to start, or, you need an accountability buddy to keep you on track until it’s a habit - I’m here.
Seriously, reply to this email and I can help you plan a month of tiny changes that will improve your life. And, I’ll check in a few times a week to crack the whip 😉 

And, that’s all folks!

Thank you for reading the latest edition of my newsletter.
As always, comments and feedback are welcome.

And, please don’t be shy to share this with a friend or family member. Each week, I’ll share something that helps us find balance.

Peace, love and growth.
Jazza

Did you know?

I work with a small, select group of founders and business owners. You know, the ones who are smart enough to realise they can’t do it all alone but still stubborn enough to try.

Some are looking for a co-pilot to stop white-knuckling the controls, and others want coaching to achieve that elusive thing called “balance” (yes, it exists… allegedly).

I’m fully booked at the moment, which sounds very cool and exclusive, because it is. But if you’re the kind of person who plans slightly ahead of their next meltdown, reach out for a 15-minute chat.

We’ll see if you’re weird and brilliant enough to join the list.

Go on. Tell me what keeps you up at night (besides questionable lifestyle choices).
Let’s Chat