What if almost everything you’ve been told about women’s fitness is wrong?
In this episode of Just As Well, hosts Gemma Atkinson and Claire Sanderson, Editor-in-Chief of Women’s Health UK, sit down with world-leading exercise physiologist and nutrition scientist Dr Stacey Sims.
This is a must-watch conversation for women who want to train smarter, feel stronger, and protect their long-term health.
Dr Sims breaks down the science of female physiology in a clear, practical way, explaining why women should stop shrinking male fitness plans — and what to do instead. From lifting heavy and rethinking cardio, to fuelling workouts properly and navigating perimenopause, this episode is packed with actionable advice you can start using immediately.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
Why strength training is non-negotiable for women — especially in midlife
How just two high-quality workouts a week can transform your body
Why fasted training can sabotage hormones, muscle, and fat loss
How your menstrual cycle affects performance, recovery, and hydration
The difference between true HIIT and “hard-ish” workouts
How lifting heavy can support brain health and reduce dementia risk
Why protein timing matters more than calories
The real benefits of creatine for women (strength, mood, bone & brain health)
How to train smarter through perimenopause and menopause
Whether you’re frustrated that your training “isn’t working anymore,” curious about optimising health after 40, or simply tired of fitness advice that wasn’t designed for women — this conversation will change how you think about exercise forever.
🎧 Listen, subscribe, and share with a friend who needs this.
Hosts:
https://www.instagram.com/glouiseatkinson/
https://www.instagram.com/clairesanderson/
Wellness video producer: https://www.instagram.com/chelia.batkin/
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices