‘Consistency beats intensity' when it comes to staying fit after 50

Join Mike for the latest episode of The House of Wellness with Chemist Warehouse on the Breeze where he is joined by author and menopause expert Niki Bezzant, broadcaster Nicky Styris with Fit over 50s, resident GP Dr John and resident pharmacist Piyara Perera. 

Featured Guest: Nicky Styris

Nicky Styris is back talking about fitness over 50, something that isn’t just about exercise, but about mindset. 

She shared that accepting your body’s changes is key to ageing well. Recovery takes longer, hormones shift and fat distribution changes, but with the right approach, strength can be maintained. 

Functional exercises, consistent movement and proper nutrition, especially protein, are essential. 

Nicky emphasised that doing something is always better than nothing - whether it’s a walk, squats in the kitchen or stretches before bed.

“ I think the key is that consistency beats intensity after 50,” she said. 

Featured Guest: Niki Bezzant

One of New Zealand’s leading voices in nutrition and women’s health, Niki Bezzant, highlighted the importance of midlife wellbeing, particularly around menopause and beyond. 

Menopause is a natural transition with lasting effects on both physical and mental health. 

Post-menopausal women should focus on maintaining heart, brain and muscle health - with exercise, strength training, social engagement and cognitive challenges all playing a role in reducing risks like dementia. 

She also stresses the power of empathy, encouraging partners to support women through these changes with understanding and kindness. 

Resident GP: Dr John

As autumn arrives, Dr John warns that respiratory illnesses like colds, flu and other viral infections tend to spike. 

He stresses the importance of self-care: resting in an upright position, staying home for four days if sick and avoiding unnecessary medications. Hand hygiene, ventilation and vaccination are key prevention strategies. 

Overall, Dr John recommends staying informed, respecting your body and protecting others as you go.

Resident Pharmacist: Piyara Perera

In light of ‘Round the Bays’ season, Piyara was in to talk about preparing for a big run and how best to care for your body and mind. 

She recommends checking your baseline health, especially if you have conditions like asthma, diabetes or high blood pressure. 

Avoid anti-inflammatories like ibuprofen before the event, and focus on gradual training to prevent injury. 

On the day, wear sun protection, stick to familiar gear, carb-load 48 hours in advance and hydrate well.

Click here to listen to our extended chat with Niki Bezzant and tune in next Sunday for The House of Wellness on the Breeze.