Calorie Counting vs. Macro Tracking Through Aging | Ep. 83

Once you hit 40, hormonal shifts and age-related muscle loss (sarcopenia) can make it harder to stay fit and energized. Protein is the key macronutrient that supports lean muscle growth, protects bone density, and keeps your metabolism humming.

Here’s a closer look:

• Build & Preserve Lean Muscle: Protein is essential for muscle repair, which in turn supports a higher resting metabolic rate.
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• Boost Metabolism: Thanks to the thermic effect of protein, your body burns more calories digesting and utilizing protein than it does with carbs or fats.
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• Stay Satiated: High-protein meals help curb cravings and stabilize blood sugar — vital for maintaining energy throughout the day.

How Protein Fits into the Full Macronutrient Picture

A balanced macronutrient diet contains protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats. At 40 years young and beyond, prioritizing protein is especially crucial for hormone balance, muscle preservation, and steady energy. That’s where the WB4 Method — the core philosophy behind WarriorBabe — comes in.
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What Is the WB4 Method?

• W – Workouts to Build Muscle & Strength
  
  
• B – Balanced Nutrients & Macros
  
  
• 4 – Four-Phase Transformation Approach (including metabolic priming, muscle-building, and maintenance)
  
  
• Method – Mindset & Accountability through coaching, community, and expert guidance
  
  

This comprehensive system addresses everything from overdrive nutrition (fueling your body appropriately) to customized exercise routines — all designed to help you sculpt a lean physique and maintain optimal health. You can check out our free WB4 Method video training right here!

How do you know WarriorBabe is legit? We’ve helped over 20,000 women transform their body composition — you can check out our WarriorBabe reviews here, from real women successfully balancing macros, enjoying lasting energy, and seeing life-changing transformations.

How Much Protein Do You Really Need?

A good rule of thumb is to eat 1 gram of protein per pound of target body weight. Yes, that sounds like a lot, but you’ll quickly feel and see the difference! We have a specific macro calculator we use in our WarriorBabe VIP Program, but there are some general guidelines you can follow to get pretty close.

• Spread your protein across 4-5 meals, using options like chicken, Greek yogurt, tofu, beans, or protein shakes.
• Avoid “batching” your protein and getting it all in 1 or 2 meals — a slow release into the body will help you maintain your results long-term and avoid energy peaks and troughs.
• Keep your macros (especially protein) consistent on both workout and non-workout days — give your body the fuel it needs to repair!

You can find more tips in our quick guide, 3 Easy Ways To Eat More Protein!

Pre and Post Workout Meals for Maximum Results

Properly fueling your body before and after a workout is crucial — especially if you’re aiming to build lean muscle and stay energized in your 40s and beyond. Here’s how to get the most out of every training session:

1. Pre-Workout Meal
   
   
   
   • Goal: Provide steady energy and prime your muscles for performance.
     
     
   • When: 20–90 minutes before your workout, on the lower end for meals with more simple carbs and on the higher end for complex carbs and fuller meals.
     
     
   • What to Include:
     
     
     
     • Protein: Around 20g to kick-start muscle protein synthesis (e.g., Greek yogurt, lean turkey, a protein shake).
       
       
     • Complex Carbs: Whole grains, oats, or fruit for sustained energy.
       
       
     • Healthy Fats (Optional): A small amount of avocado or nuts if you’re prone to quick hunger, but aim to keep this under 8 grams total

1. Post-Workout Meal
   
   
   
   • Goal: Jumpstart recovery, replenish glycogen, and repair muscle tissue.
     
     
   • When: Ideally within 30–60 minutes after your workout.
     
     
   • What to Include:
     
     
     
     • Protein: Around 20–30g to maximize muscle recovery (e.g., whey protein shake, chicken breast, egg whites).
       
       
     • Carbs: Faster-digesting carbs like white rice, a banana, or sweet potato help restore energy levels.
       
       
     • Hydration: Don’t forget water (or an electrolyte beverage) to replace fluids lost through sweat. Just watch out for high sugar content and artificial sweeteners! Coconut water (unsweetened) is an excellent natural source of electrolytes if you enjoy the flavor.

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Pairing high-quality protein sources with the right carbohydrate and fat balance can be especially seamless with your own WarriorBabe VIP meal plan, which offers ready-to-go meal ideas and macro breakdowns. By timing your nutrients appropriately, you’ll supercharge your workouts, support muscle repair, and help your body adapt faster to the demands of strength training. You can find more info on the WarriorBabe VIP here!

Meal Planning & Macros: Bringing It All Together

One of the biggest perks of WarriorBabe meal plans is personalized macro guidance, especially around protein. You’ll know exactly what to eat, in what portions, and when, so you never guess whether you’re getting enough protein or missing a critical nutrient. But here are a few rules of thumb to get you started:

1. Meal Prep Tips: Use lean meats, eggs, or plant-based protein sources. Prep in bulk and build your meals around your protein sources to help you hit your targets.
2. Snack Smart: Greek yogurt, protein bars, or cottage cheese can keep cravings in check.
   
   

Stay Consistent: Log your target macros in MyFitnessPal and aim to be within 5 grams of your ideal protein, carbs, and fats day-to-day.

Extra Benefits of Focusing on Protein as a 40+ Woman

In case you need extra incentive to add more protein to your diet, here are a few extra bonuses you gain from eating more, more consistently:

1. Hormone Balance – Stable blood sugar from protein-based meals can positively influence cortisol, insulin, and estrogen levels — helping you feel more in control, more balanced, and more vibrant throughout the day.
   
   
2. Bone Health – Protein helps maintain bone density, helping combat the risk of osteoporosis in conjunction with regular strength training.
   
   

Enhanced Energy – Adequate protein curbs energy crashes that often come from focusing heavily on carbs and fats, enabling you to be more present in your life.

Final Word: Protein Fuels Your Prime Years

Getting enough protein after 40 isn’t a luxury — it’s essential. You’ll see the impact in your waistline, your workouts, and your day-to-day energy. Prioritize protein, stay consistent with strength training, and watch your body and confidence transform. Pair that with the comprehensive support of our proven WB4 Method, and you’ll have everything you need to conquer your goals.

Ready to see what’s possible? Check out the free WB4 Method video training here!

If you’re wondering:

• How much does WarriorBabe cost?
• What’s the price of WarriorBabe per month?
• Is WarriorBabe worth the investment?

You’re not alone — and you’re asking the right questions.

Thousands of women over 40 have turned to WarriorBabe when they were tired of guessing, stuck in plateaus, or simply ready to take control of their body and health for good.

This page will walk you through what’s included in WarriorBabe VIP, the investment, why it’s a 12-month partnership, and how to take the first step toward your transformation.

👑 What Is WarriorBabe?

WarriorBabe is the largest online 1:1 fitness and nutrition coaching program for women in the U.S.

We help women — especially over 40 — build strength, tone their bodies, and master their metabolism using our WB4 Method and high-touch coaching system.

This is not a fitness app.
This is not a diet.
This is not a quick fix.

This is a life-changing partnership where you're supported, challenged, and guided every step of the way.

💬 So… How Much Does WarriorBabe Cost?

WarriorBabe offers 1:1 coaching through the WarriorBabe VIP, which includes customized macronutrient and workout plans, daily check-ins, and community calls to create accountability.

WarriorBabe VIP pricing varies based on your desired level of support, coach availability, and current client volume — for more details specific to your goals and current availability, WarriorBabe offers a 1:1 Body Transformation Assessment to choose the best plan for you.

Here’s what you should know:

WarriorBabe VIP is a 12-month minimum commitment — with monthly payment options available.

Why 12 months? Because true transformation doesn’t happen overnight.

• It takes time to reset your metabolism.
• Time to build lean muscle.
• Time to rewire your habits and beliefs.
• Time to become the woman you want to see in the mirror.

That’s why we partner with you for a full year — because that’s what actually works.

If you’re ready to explore if WarriorBabe is the right fit, we offer a free 1:1 call with a WarriorBabe Advisor.

This isn’t a high-pressure sales call. It’s a genuine conversation to:

• Understand your goals
• Identify what’s holding you back
• Explain the program structure
• And help you see if now is the time to commit

👉 Click here to apply and book your Body Transformation Assessment

✅ What’s Included in WarriorBabe VIP?

You’re not signing up for a plan — you’re stepping into a full support system.

💪 1:1 Personalized Coaching

• Daily check-ins and direct messaging
• Customized macros and strength training plans
• Monthly strategy reviews and plan updates
• Accountability from a real human who cares

🧠 Mindset Coaching & Lifestyle Shifts

• Weekly mindset calls with WarriorBabe founder Nikkiey
• Learn how to overcome self-doubt, plateaus, and perfectionism
• Rebuild your identity as a strong, powerful woman

👯‍♀️ Community & Group Support

• Biweekly huddles with fellow WarriorBabes
• Monthly macro mastery sessions
• Share victories, troubleshoot setbacks, and get inspired

📲 WarriorBabe App

• Track your workouts, macros, and progress
• Access your customized plan and video demos
• Stay connected to your coach, your tools, and your goals

💬 What Real Women Are Saying

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“This program gave me my confidence and energy back — at 55!”
– Marla

“It’s not a diet. It’s a full-body reset. I feel powerful, lean, and strong again.”
– Shannon

“I was lost in menopause. WarriorBabe gave me structure, support, and the results I never thought I could have again.”
– Yvonne

“The 12-month commitment is what made the difference. It held me accountable — and changed my life.”
– Lisa

See more client reviews here.

🚨 Why WarriorBabe Isn’t Month-to-Month

We don’t do short-term fixes.
We do long-term results.

That’s why WarriorBabe VIP requires a minimum 12-month commitment — because sustainable change takes time, structure, and guidance.

And yes — we offer monthly payment options so you can commit with flexibility.

This isn’t about paying for a program.
This is about investing in yourself — and finally getting the results that last.

🎯 Ready to Take the First Step?

If you’ve made it this far, chances are you’re serious about changing your body and your life.

You don’t need another app.
You don’t need another “maybe this time” plan.
You need a partner. A system. A path forward that actually works.

Start with a free 1:1 call with a WarriorBabe Advisor.

👉 Click here to apply and book your Body Transformation Assessment

• No pressure
• No guesswork
• Just clarity, confidence, and a powerful next step

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How to Reset Your Metabolism and Burn Fat Efficiently

Are you struggling with stubborn weight gain despite eating less and working out harder? You’re not alone. Many women unknowingly slow their metabolism through extreme dieting and overtraining.

By the end of this article, you’ll know exactly how to reset your metabolism and turn your body into a fat-burning machine.

Understanding Your Metabolic Rate

Your metabolism is the process by which your body converts food into energy. It consists of:

• Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR): The calories your body burns at rest (about 60% of total energy use).
• Active Energy Expenditure (AEE): Calories burned through exercise and movement (around 25% for moderate activity levels).
• Thermic Effect of Food (TEF): The energy required to digest food (about 15% of total calories from food — more if you eat enough protein).

If you’re in a calorie deficit for too long, your metabolism slows down to conserve energy. The result? Weight loss plateaus and increased fat storage.

What Causes a Slow Metabolism?

If your metabolism feels sluggish, one (or more) of these common culprits may be to blame:

❌ Eating too little for too long – Chronic dieting puts your body into starvation mode, slowing metabolism and increasing fat storage. 

❌ Overtraining without recovery – Too much exercise without proper rest raises cortisol, decreases muscle growth, and slows metabolism. 

❌ Lack of muscle mass – Muscle burns more calories than fat, even at rest. 

❌ Hormonal imbalances – Cortisol, thyroid hormones, and leptin directly affect metabolic rate. 

❌ Poor sleep & high-stress levels – Sleep deprivation increases cravings and stress hormones, leading to a metabolic slowdown.

The good news? You can reset your metabolism naturally by making the right changes to your diet, exercise, and lifestyle.

How to Reset Your Metabolism Naturally

1. Eat More to Burn More (Stop Starvation Mode!)

Have you ever hit a weight loss plateau, despite cutting calories? That’s your metabolism slowing down to conserve energy.

The Fix: Reverse dieting – slowly increasing your calorie intake – helps restore metabolic function. 

Focus on nutrient-dense foods: Lean proteins, healthy fats, and fiber-rich carbs keep your metabolism burning efficiently.

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2. Prioritize Protein for a Metabolic Boost

Protein has the highest thermic effect, meaning your body burns more calories digesting it than fats or carbs.

✅ Aim for at least 1g of protein per pound of lean body mass. 

✅ Best protein sources: Chicken, turkey, eggs, Greek yogurt, lentils, beans, tofu.

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3. Strength Training: Your Metabolism’s Best Friend

More muscle = higher metabolism, even at rest. If your routine is mostly cardio, you could be losing muscle and slowing your metabolic rate.

✅ Lift weights 2-3 times per muscle group a week to build lean muscle. 

✅ If you prefer home workouts, use resistance bands or bodyweight exercises. 

✅ Combine strength training & cardio for best results.

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4. Reduce Stress & Optimize Sleep

Stress increases cortisol, which leads to fat storage and cravings. Poor sleep disrupts hormones that regulate hunger and metabolism.

✅ Get at least 7-8 hours of quality sleep per night. 

✅ Create a nighttime routine – limit screen time, dim the lights, and set a consistent bedtime. 

✅ Practice stress management – deep breathing, meditation, or journaling can lower cortisol levels.

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5. Balance Your Hormones Naturally

Hormonal imbalances can stall fat loss and slow your metabolism. Supporting your endocrine system is crucial for long-term results.

✅ Eat hormone-balancing foods: Healthy fats (avocados, salmon, nuts), fiber-rich foods, and leafy greens.

 ✅ Reduce processed foods that spike blood sugar and build insulin resistance.

✅ Stay hydrated – dehydration can negatively impact metabolism and hormone balance.

How Long Does It Take to Reset Your Metabolism?

Results vary based on individual history, but most women notice increased energy and fat loss within 4-8 weeks. Remember, consistency is key!

You may not see immediate weight loss, but your body is adapting for long-term fat burning.

Stop Guessing – Let WarriorBabe Help You Reset Your Metabolism!

Tired of restrictive diets that ruin your metabolism? At WarriorBabe, we specialize in helping women reset their metabolism and achieve sustainable fat loss.

Custom-calculated macros & meal plans 

Expert coaching on metabolic repair 

Strength-based training programs 

Real, long-term results – NO crash diets!

🚀 Join WarriorBabe today and take control of your metabolism!

Frequently Asked Questions

Does resetting your metabolism help with weight loss?
Yes! When your metabolism functions properly, your body burns more calories efficiently, making weight loss easier and more sustainable.

How many calories should I eat for a healthy metabolism?
This depends on factors like age, activity level, and muscle mass. WarriorBabe provides customized macro coaching to find the perfect balance for YOU.

What’s the fastest way to reset my metabolism?
🔹 Reverse diet to increase calories gradually
🔹 Strength training to build muscle
🔹 Prioritize protein and whole foods
🔹 Reduce stress and improve sleep

🔥 Ready to transform your metabolism and burn fat effortlessly? Click here to get started with WarriorBabe!

Tracking Macronutrients for Weight Loss: A Guide to Effective Eating

Have you ever heard fitness enthusiasts talk about “macros?” They’re referring to macronutrients—essential nutrients your body needs for energy and optimal function.

You likely know that eating in a calorie deficit is key to weight loss, but tracking your macronutrients can accelerate your progress and ensure you’re burning fat while maintaining muscle. By planning your meals with intention, you’ll set yourself up for long-term success.
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Here’s everything you need to know about macronutrients for weight loss and how to make them work for you.

Understanding Macronutrients for Weight Loss

If you’ve been cutting calories but aren’t seeing the results you expected, your macronutrient balance might be off.

Macronutrients are the three primary components of food: carbohydrates, protein, and fats. Each plays a critical role in fueling your body, but for weight loss, your intake should be strategically balanced.

Dietitians generally recommend these macro percentages for fat loss:

• 50% Carbs
• 35% Protein
• 15% Fats

The Dietary Guidelines for Americans (2020-2025) suggest a broader range:

• Carbs: 45-65%
• Protein: 10-35%
• Fats: 20-35%

But the answer for you will depend on your unique goals. While tracking overall calories is important, ensuring your calories come from the right macronutrient balance can make or break your weight loss journey — start with protein and fill the rest of your categories with carbs and fats.

This is an oversimplification, but in general, lean toward more carbs before menopause and slightly higher fats during and after menopause..

The Three Macronutrients: What You Need to Know

Protein – The Muscle Builder

Protein is essential for muscle repair, recovery, and satiety. Unlike carbs and fats, protein has a high thermic effect, meaning your body burns more calories digesting it.

The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend at least:

• 46g/day for women
• 56g/day for men

Protein-rich foods: Chicken, turkey, eggs, Greek yogurt, lentils, beans, tofu, and lean meats.

Carbohydrates – The Energy Source

Carbs fuel your workouts and brain function. However, quality matters—focus on complex carbs like whole grains and fiber-rich veggies, and limit refined carbs that spike blood sugar.

Healthy carbs: Quinoa, brown rice, oats, lentils, vegetables, and fruit.

Fats – The Hormone Balancer

Despite their bad reputation, healthy fats are crucial for vitamin absorption and hormone regulation. Focus on monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, while minimizing trans fats and excessive saturated fats.

Healthy fats: Avocados, olive oil, nuts, fatty fish, and seeds.

How to Track Macronutrients for Weight Loss

1. Use a Tracking App – MyFitnessPal and Cronometer can simplify macro counting.
2. Invest in a Food Scale – Measuring portions ensures accuracy.
3. Estimate When Necessary – Don’t stress over perfection—consistency matters most.

Sample Macro Calculation Formula:

• Protein: (Daily Calories x 0.35) ÷ 4 = Grams of Protein
• Carbs: (Daily Calories x 0.50) ÷ 4 = Grams of Carbs
• Fats: (Daily Calories x 0.15) ÷ 9 = Grams of Fat

Example: If your target is 1,500 calories/day, your macro goals might be:

• 131g protein
• 188g carbs
• 25g fat

Building Your Meals Around Macronutrients

For the best results, structure your meals with single-source macros to simplify tracking.

Protein-Packed Foods:

• Lean meats: Chicken, turkey, lean beef
• Plant-based: Lentils, beans, tofu, tempeh
• Dairy: Greek yogurt, eggs, cottage cheese

Complex Carbohydrates:

• Whole grains: Brown rice, quinoa, whole wheat bread
• Vegetables: Sweet potatoes, broccoli, spinach
• Legumes: Lentils, chickpeas, black beans

Healthy Fats:

• Nuts & Seeds: Almonds, walnuts, chia seeds
• Oils: Extra virgin olive oil, avocado oil
• Fatty Fish: Salmon, sardines

Common Macro Tracking Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Ignoring Food Quality – Nutrient-dense foods keep you fuller longer. 

❌ Being Too Strict – Sustainable weight loss requires balance, not obsession. 

❌ Skipping Personalization – Adjust macros based on your lifestyle and goals. 

❌ Forgetting Satiety – High-protein meals keep hunger in check.

‍Tips for Sustainable Macro Tracking

✅ Read Food Labels – Pay attention to serving sizes and ingredient quality. 

✅ Meal Prep in Advance – Helps you stay on track with balanced meals. 

✅ Stay Flexible – Progress, not perfection, is key.

Join WarriorBabe & Take Control of Your Health

Tracking macronutrients for weight loss empowers you to make informed, sustainable choices for your health and fitness journey.

At WarriorBabe, we help women over 40 regain confidence, build muscle, and create lasting transformations. If you're ready to take your fitness to the next level, apply now to join our proven program!

Frequently Asked Questions

What macros should I eat to lose weight? A balanced intake of carbohydrates, protein, and fats tailored to your age, body composition, and activity level.

How much protein should I eat to lose weight? Aim for 1 gram of protein per pound of body weight to support muscle retention and fat loss.

What should a 40-year-old woman eat to lose weight? A calorie deficit combined with balanced macronutrients—focusing on lean protein, complex carbs, and healthy fats.

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🔥 Ready to transform your body with WarriorBabe? Click here to get started!

How Women Can Maximize Post-Workout Recovery at 40+

By the time we reach our 40s, our bodies have a slightly different rhythm than they did a decade or two ago. Intense workouts can still yield incredible results, but the way we recover becomes increasingly important. Proper post-workout recovery isn’t just about avoiding soreness; it’s about making sure your body can rebuild stronger, healthier muscles without unnecessary setbacks. Here’s how to get the most out of your rest and come back even better for your next session!

1. Give Your Muscles Room to Repair

When you engage in strength training or high-effort cardio, you create tiny tears in your muscle fibers. These micro-tears need time to heal so your muscles can grow stronger. Rather than pushing yourself hard every single day, alternate tough workouts with gentler activities or days off. This could mean doing a challenging weightlifting session on Monday, then a brisk walk or light yoga on Tuesday. A simple rhythm like that can help keep fatigue (and potential injuries) at bay. Listen to your body and adapt to what works for you over time.

2. Address Hormone Balance and Stress Levels

Once you’re over 40, hormones like estrogen, progesterone, and cortisol can have a bigger impact on how quickly you bounce back from exercise (for better or worse). Elevated cortisol — often caused by chronic stress — can interfere with muscle repair and nudge your body toward holding onto stubborn fat. Supporting hormonal balance can be as straightforward as getting enough sleep, learning to manage day-to-day stress, and fueling yourself with nutrient-rich foods. If you’re short on sleep, even the best workout routine can feel draining. Prioritize quality rest, and don’t underestimate small stress-busting habits like journaling, light meditation, or a calming cup of herbal tea before bed.

3. Use Active Recovery Techniques

Recovery doesn’t mean plopping on the couch for days on end — although a true rest day now and then might be exactly what you need. Active recovery involves low-intensity movement that promotes blood flow without taxing your muscles too hard. Think gentle stretching, leisurely walks, or a short bike ride at a relaxed pace. These types of activities help flush out metabolic waste from your muscles and deliver nutrients that aid in the rebuilding process. If you like a bit more structure, consider a restorative yoga class that focuses on breathing and joint mobility. It might surprise you how refreshed you feel afterward — and how much better your next intense workout goes.

4. Fuel and Hydrate for Faster Rebound

Protein is essential for muscle repair, and that’s especially true as our bodies get older. Make sure you’re fitting enough protein into your daily meals — whether it’s lean meats, dairy, eggs, beans, or any other plant-based protein sources. Carbohydrates also play a vital role in replenishing the glycogen stores your body uses to fuel workouts, so don’t write them off! Choose whole grains, fruits, and vegetables to keep your energy steady without sending blood sugar levels on a roller coaster. Water is another overlooked key player in post-workout recovery; staying hydrated helps transport nutrients to your muscles, regulate body temperature, and maintain overall health. If plain water bores you, a splash of fruit juice or a few slices of cucumber can make it more enticing.

Ready for guidance tailored to your unique body? Our program is crafted to help women over 40 strike the perfect balance between challenging workouts and smart recovery. Apply to become a WarriorBabe here!

How to Tone Your Glutes After 40

If you’ve been feeling like your backside could use a little extra attention — or you just want a strong foundation for everything else you do — this article is for you. Let’s dive into three straightforward strategies to help you build and shape your glutes for the long-term!

1. The Role of Strong Glutes

Your glutes aren’t just there for appearances; they play a major role in maintaining good posture and stabilizing your hips and lower back. A strong backside helps reduce strain on other parts of your body, especially when you’re lifting or simply tackling everyday tasks. After 40, shifting hormone levels can affect how effectively you build muscle, so patience and consistency are key. Also, remember your glutes are part of a larger system that includes your core — strengthening one area often benefits the other, so tighten your core during glute-focused exercises for added stability and better form!

2. Focus on Moves That Really Count

Do squats, hip thrusts, and exercises with heavy weights — avoid long, repetitive exercises like kickbacks if muscle tone is your goal. Forward, reverse, and lateral lunges each target your glutes from different angles, so mixing them up can keep your workouts interesting. Allow plenty of time for rest, too; active recovery, like light stretching or walking, can ease tightness and improve circulation, helping you bounce back more quickly.

3. Support Your Efforts with Nutrition and Lifestyle

Protein is critical if you want to see noticeable changes, so lean on foods like poultry, fish, or plant-based options for daily muscle repair. Staying hydrated is also key — water keeps your muscles functioning and helps transport nutrients where they’re needed. If plain water feels dull, try infusing it with fruit or herbs! And don’t overlook stress levels; constant stress can throw your hormones out of balance and slow muscle growth. Simple habits like reading, listening to music, or taking a few minutes of quiet time can help lower stress and support your glute-toning goals in the long run.

Ready to get 1-on-1 support in your workouts, nutrition, feedback, accountability, and more? Apply to become a WarriorBabe here!