How I built muscle over 50 and menopausal

[@wilmawouda6010]

Melissa, you have honestly changed my life 😢, i am so grateful. I have never thought i would struggle so much over 40. I joined the 8 week challenge (that finish on Sunday) didn't loose scale weight, but definitely grown stronger and built muscle. The journey will continue as i have a long road ahead, BUT, my mindset has changed severely. Stopped the severe fasting and extremely low calories and now realize how much damaged i've already done to my metabolism. Bumped up the protien, started taking the supplements and now it's consistency consistency consistency. I am grateful for you, truly. Wish it was a magic pill, but glad it is not, otherwise no longterm habits will be established.

[@MelissaNeill]

So proud of you!

[@sarahbean6170]

I’m with you hon! LIFE CHANGING!!

[@lafordgirl7549]

Get it!!!!

[@novaadior4251]

What kind of supplements are you taking

[@wilmawouda6010]

@@novaadior4251 BCAA, Creatine & Magnesium.

[@fuzzybug29]

“Anyone can do this!” That is so exciting and empowering and has been the best thing about switching to strength focused. I can actually get the results I’m aiming for. It’s no longer a fruitless exercise. I am happier with my body than I’ve ever been in my life in my 40’s! Thank you Melissa for being a big voice in this revolution for women and for your help on my journey! ❤

[@MelissaNeill]

Sooo happy and proud of you!

[@sarahbean6170]

I don’t know how anyone can accuse you of such things! You are the most genuine coach I’ve seen yet! Melissa is a rock star! 🤩 This 8 week challenge has been eye opening!!!

[@awhite8247]

I started taking Creatine 8 months ago after watching Melissa’s videos. Not only has my lean muscle improved, but also my energy levels. I was experiencing perimenopause fatigue 2-3 x weekly. As Creatine replenished ATP (energy) in your cells, I now get fatigue 2-3 x monthly. A HUGE improvement. It’s also good for cognitive function too. Stick to a maintenance dose though (5-7g per day), as loading can cause gastrointestinal upset.

[@MelissaNeill]

Wow thanks for sharing your experience!

[@dokamasters]

Hello, which creatine brand do you use please? Confusing as so much on the market x

[@licenciadamaria-b2d]

Same! Creatine gives me energy. It makes it so much easier to work out

[@TheAlinaCretu]

Hiit is a no for me, i found my body considers it too much of a stress and gets down my overall fidgeting for the day. But i do 4 heavy lifting sessions a week and 14 000 steps daily the least, it can get to 17000 on a daily basis cause i walk outside a lot and in the evening i like watching KZbin videos like yours while walking on incline treadmill.

[@lisaolah7477]

Girl, I WISH I could look like you!!! You look amazing. I could listen to your channel all day!!! Thanks for the inspiration :)

[@MelissaNeill]

You are so welcome!

[@kimtilley7936]

Hello Melissa, I have been a follower of yours for a number of years now. I just love your platform helping women over 40 to adopt a healthy life style. Unfortunately older women often get forgotten. I'm now post menopausal and feel fabulous thanks to you Melissa!! Just one bit of advice for those who choose to take supplements. If you have a medical condition, please see your Dr before taking. Unfortunately I have inherited some of my family genes (not so nice) I have high blood pressure. Exercise and healthy diet helps, however I have been advised not to take Creatine. Apparently its is not recommended for those with high blood pressure. Just thought I would let you all know. Happy training ladies and a big thank you Melissa. ❤

[@preshussunshine]

Melissa, you and Ernestine have motivated me. I have started working out 3 days a,week and changed my eating/ nutrition.

[@MelissaNeill]

That is awesome!

[@virginiemazy7054]

Melissa its very good advice ! I bought the book next level from dr Stacy Sims and indeed she said we need to lift heavy to give enough stimulus to our muscles (done before by oestrogen). She also speaks of HIIT, specifically SIT (short intervals training) and plyometrics (eg jump on a box). She also said that fasting was not good for women (studies were mainly done on men). Thanks for the very good advice ! Of course the challenge is doing it and being consistent ….

[@MelissaNeill]

You're most welcome!

[@Tash303]

I am sorry "they" took hits at you. We all know it’s your handwork, dedication and discipline. Thank you for your beautiful shining spirit. I am on my way! ❤️

[@MelissaNeill]

Thank you so much!

[@Tash303]

@@MelissaNeill 💕

[@natalielorena6597]

I am so happy I found you and your channel ! You're going to be my core inspiration and I can't wait to get started. Binge watching all your videos. Thanks for your content xx

[@ujunwapamela9010]

This is an incredibly inspiring journey Melissa! Great work you are doing, a healthy body leads to a healthier life

[@MelissaNeill]

Thank you!

[@proanimaluver6487]

Hello friend!! ❤ looking great!! You are my inspiration. I am finally seeing muscle.

[@MelissaNeill]

You got this!

[@michellewiggins5736]

You are so perfect and an inspiration

[@licenciadamaria-b2d]

Nutrition is my struggle. I work out regularly and for years now. I need to get on the right track with food.

[@MelissaNeill]

Hi! You can sign up for my free nutrition guide here: melissaneill.com/opt-in-meal-plan/

[@licenciadamaria-b2d]

@@MelissaNeill thank you 🙏

[@inspiredbahroots]

Melissa, I cannot express how much I am grateful for your channel and vulnerability. I'm watching all of your videos as you keep me inspired. I am 50, perimenopausal, and overweight (155 lbs- 5'3). I did not realize the things I was doing wrong. I purchased a Tonal in June 2022 and consistently use it 4-5 times a week. I saw small results but nothing major, never lost weight although I look good in my clothes and can wear a bikini. I got a DEXA scan on March 14, 2024, and my body fat is extremely high 40%! this was my wake-up call. What I was not doing: Walking 10,000 steps, counting calories, protein intake, and finally using creatine. Ever since watching your videos 3 weeks ago, I have averaged 11, 000 steps daily, I eat between 1200-1400 calories a day, I intake about 130 protein grams daily (plant-based diet) and I take creatine before using my Tonal. Although I do not see results yet, I am encouraged as I know it will make a difference eventually. I will keep you posted on my results. You look amazing and are a true inspiration 😍

[@MelissaNeill]

Sooo happy for you! Great job!

[@inspiredbahroots]

❤

[@OkIamReadyNow]

Thank you for all of this good info.

[@loribaker6068]

I wanted to lose fat and I use ur food guidelines. I’m 62 and in by best shape ever

[@shawnrogers578]

Thank you for this video!! I am sincerely interested in building muscle and at my age had no idea where to start!! This is amazingly helpful!!

[@scarabcity2132]

Thank you soo much for your inspiration 🌺 Well Done! 🌟

[@kathkite]

I always keep coming back to you. Melissa, because I think you are the last word on this subject. I have been trying to build muscle (I have developed some muscle) and lose body fat following your guidance for about 7 months. I realize at this point. I'm going to need to step it up and join your strong women club. After a trip to paris, that is. I have gained a bit of body fat doing it by myself. Im looking forward to joining the club and sorting out these little niggling issues.But i'm all in and want to achieve the best body I can get at 62. I am getting stronger however and I love to lift!!

[@MelissaNeill]

Keep thriving! Love that! Looking forward to seeing you in the Strong Woman Club!

[@danayetman253]

Thank you so much for ALL your videos!!!! LOVE

[@janinedance102]

I’m 52 and have a trainer. Doing everything you say and in over a year my weight has stayed the same and my body shape is the same. My trainer said don’t worry about it, I’m fit and healthy. Not seeing muscle and dropping fat is probably my genetics. Eating 1500 cals a day. Sleep up to 10 hours a night. Lift weights 3-4 times a week. 2 times hiit training and walking 7000 steps a day. I feel a bit frustrated but feel the only way out of these feelings is to accept that I’m not a body type that builds muscle definition. It’s so hard. My mother was the same. 😞 I started at 65kg, I’m now 66kg and 170cm. I think if I dropped some weight I would see muscles, maybe? But body fat doesn’t seem to change even in a calorie deficit. Any wisdom?

[@MelissaNeill]

Thank you for sharing your journey-it sounds like you’re incredibly disciplined and consistent in your efforts, which is something to be proud of. It’s completely understandable to feel frustrated when you’re putting in so much work and not seeing the changes you’re hoping for. You’re not alone in feeling this way, and many people face similar challenges. Keep focusing on how strong, fit, and healthy you feel, and know that your efforts are still making a positive impact on your overall well-being. 💪

[@angeladavies]

Great vlog. I do take HRT for bone benefit and mood.

[@MelissaNeill]

That's great! Thank you! 🥰

[@queenoffuntravel7709]

This was a great video and so helpful! Thank you!

[@MelissaNeill]

Glad it was helpful!

[@lissetterivera4705]

I need your energy and strength I really do you look amazing

[@MelissaNeill]

You got this!

[@agelessbeautee5.04]

Perfect timing

[@catherinedavidson1661]

Melissa, dont listen to them. People like that don't want to admit that changes like yours come about due to discipline, dedication, and hard work. They believe in achieving goals using short cuts. That's why we have an unhealthy obsession with Ozempic.

[@jam1369]

This is wonderful!!

[@lucygachanja7511]

Thanks sister l ❤ what you are doing helping us God bless you bisous

[@lyndabennett1ify]

Very informative. Thank you.

[@MelissaNeill]

Glad it was helpful!

[@Soundcloud765]

Fantastic! You are looking great!You are my inspiration. Thank you for the content you are sharing. I started looking after myself, I walk and run and started exercising in the gym and looking forward to changes with my body shape. Please don't give up to share with us these valuable suggestions how to achieve same results as you did withyour stunning body shape. ❤

[@l.c.c.81]

Hi Melissa, I workout at 4:30am on an empty stomach 😬 I just can’t eat so early in the morning. But I do drink my protein shake when I’m done with my workout.

[@sarahvas7291]

Hi Melissa I get up at 4.20am to go to the gym so how would I fuel my body before I go? I’m not hungry, it’s super early and I literally get up and rush to the gym …Thankyou

[@MelissaNeill]

You can try some pre-workout snacks or pre-workout shakes

[@tonjahooper1502]

I wanna look like that as well

[@MelissaNeill]

You can too!

[@desireeohrbeck2282]

I don't usually eat in the morning but listening to you makes me think I have to change that. Would protein in a water bottle be enough? Or would müsli (which I love) be a good starter?

[@lindaschwartz504]

This is such great information. I know that I did try creatine a couple of years ago and it added weight to my waist and I could not digest it too well because of my IBS. I take L-Glutamine, maca root, glucosamine and a great new probiotic that really make me feel good. I just completed the 8 week challenge and am continuing with everything as usual, but I really do want to join the Women's Club and stick with you for a few years. I am 60 and have gotten such great results so far, but I do have a lot of work to do still on my body. One question I have about BURPEES is that I don't like them because I am still healing from a lower back injury. What can I do instead to replace that exercise?

[@926paaja]

I have frozen shoulder and full floor burpees are impossible for me .. I use a chair so my hands are higher I had to start with step backs and progress to hops.. have you tried to modify it ? Of course only if your doctor gave you the go ahead 😅

[@Ms.hummingbird]

Hi there gorgeous lady, gorgeous body & w the fabulous accent! Love your videos one question for you are you fermenting those Garbanzos- Chickpeas?

[@shantidanceyoga]

You are such an inspiration and so naturally beautiful! What is your height and weight please?

[@MelissaNeill]

Thank you so much!!

[@shantidanceyoga]

@@MelissaNeill what is your height and weight please?

[@henriettacollins2048]

Can I alternate walking and dancing for cardio if I don’t want to do HIIT? I love both dancing and walking.

[@desireeohrbeck2282]

I never had to do anything, I was naturally slim and toned. Fast forward and I am now 49 - and I am watching my body change. I want to change belly fat and build muscle. I am going to join a gym and start lifting weights. How much time do you spend a week building your body? (I want to train in the morning after dropping kids off at school. I work and take care of the kids, can't dedicate my whole life. Is it still possible?)

[@MelissaNeill]

It's never too late! It's important that you set how much time you have available and commit to it.

[@desireeohrbeck2282]

@@MelissaNeill thank you for your encouragement. I am planning to go 4 times/week only for weight training (m,t,th and f-day) for about 45 minutes and then walk my two dogs afterwards. Would that be sufficient you think for building a lean, toned body? How long does it take before I can see results?

[@summertime6692]

how do you take the creatine. I've heard people put it in coffee or smoothie or just water. what's the best way?

[@MelissaNeill]

You can put it in warm water or tea to let it dissolve faster. Hope that helps!

[@nicolaweston9355]

Brown rice tonight. Just Eggs for breaky.. More protein for lunch... I'm using 4kg weights... Loving this thank you. 😊 🎉

[@sonnyecho9195]

Great content and yes I agree about recovery time give yourself plenty of rest between legs/lower body workouts bc they really drain the body while the body is building the muscle…1-1.5 G of protein per # of body weight really helps energy and increases metabolism and satisfies the appetite…one thing I have found at 50 I found out about magnesium as a pain reliever for muscle soreness from Dr. Livingood. Thanks for the advice on HIIT too.

[@evadamonte3409]

New subscriber.🤗

[@MelissaNeill]

Thanks for subscribing!

[@mariagillinson8527]

What kind of equipment did you start out with at home?

[@lanamiller1671]

I know that i need to be consuming abt 100 grams of protein per day, bt on the Bikin menu each meal recommends 80-100 grams of protein x

[@TRUMPWIN21]

I’m curious, are you on any HRT? I’ve just started, including testosterone due to being post menopause. I feel like now is the right time to build muscle with this boost in TRT. Any advice?

[@monicajackson1914]

I believe she did say she is on HRT!

[@mariagillinson8527]

I’m worried about injury right at the start out… how did you start?

[@MelissaNeill]

Key is to know what your limits are. You can start lighter or slower then gradually aim for more intense workouts.

[@nicolaweston9355]

Ooooo and ive cut out alcohol too 👍🏻

[@MessiahMcpherson]

nice

[@urainaheyward190]

I want to get like you!!! 💯💪👋👋💜💜💜 And I want to win my contest! And I can do it with your coaching!! Love you 💜💜💜

[@MelissaNeill]

You got this!

[@tamikaradford4326]

❤

[@lanamiller1671]

Can someone help me out please🤦😂

[@wendywatkins7366]

No

[@lanamiller1671]

@@wendywatkins7366 why bother responding no??👍

[@MelissaNeill]

You can send a question to [e-mail] so my team and I can help out :)

[@mariagillinson8527]

Did you hire a trainer at the gym?