After 40, rider fitness really does change—but that doesn’t mean decline is inevitable. In this episode, we discuss how shifting hormones affect muscle, metabolism, stress, and weight gain, and why the “just ride and do barn chores” approach stops working. We break down the two levers that horsewomen can use to stay lean, strong, and confident in the saddle. You can join the 2026 Leaner Stronger Rider Challenge at thesweatyequestrian.teachable.com/p/leaner-stronger-rider or learn about membership at TheSweatyEquestrian.com/fitness.