By Womaness Editors 4-Minute Read
With all eyes on Paris this summer, we thought to ourselves: who better to turn to for tips on aging well than an actual Olympic gold medalist? We spoke with one of our favorites (and yours), internationally acclaimed figure skater and now TV sports broadcaster Tara Lipinski, for her take on how fitness, nutrition, and self-care are helping her reach championship-levels of living fully as a woman—and new mom to daughter Georgie—thriving in her early forties.
Can you share how your approach to fitness and wellness has evolved since your Olympic days?
My approach to wellness and fitness is always evolving as I learn what works best for my body and mind—so a lot of trial by error and seeing what fits for my lifestyle. But since the Olympics my motto is “balance.” As an athlete, my mindset can get to all or nothing pretty quickly and I realize having balance works best for me. Eating my vegetables while also throwing in a day where I get Shake Shack. Working out, but not every day. Pushing myself, but also allowing myself to sit on the couch the days I need to just chill.
In addition to skating, are there other exercises or sports you've found to be especially beneficial as you've gotten older?
When I do a sport, it’s skating. Going back to the rink is home for me!
My workout routine has been pretty consistent for the last five years. I found a trainer who is able to get me moving while also helping me to build muscle through light weight training and body-resistance training. We actually started a workout membership together where we are creating an incredible community of women! We do live classes, on demand, and have an hour every month where we connect with everyone on Zoom to just chat.
I am passionate and believe in the workout, as I’ve tried every one out there so I can seriously say it does wonders for my mind and body. Again, all about balance. It’s not super intense, but it’s also a hard workout where you are shaping your muscles, which is so important as you age. It’s all levels as it can go from body weight to the weight you choose. But the most rewarding part is creating a space for women to come together to help motivate one another and a place where we can share our wellness journeys together.
How important is nutrition in your overall wellness plan today? Have you made any significant dietary changes to support your health as you age?
I try to eat as many whole foods as I can. I rarely eat packaged food anymore. Fruits and veggies are always in my fridge, but I also love carbs!
I grew up on carbs to keep my energy up as an athlete, and I am not afraid to have pasta and bagels through the week to feel fully charged. I’m not a huge meat eater, but I am conscious of my protein intake. I drink a lot of water and, again, love to balance it out with meals that aren’t the healthiest or allow myself to indulge in my weakness—sweets. I don’t like following a diet or a strict way of eating; I try to intuitively think about what feels good for my body in the moment.
Are there specific routines, practices, or products you believe are essential for long-term health?
There are so many things I still would like to add to my daily health goals, like meditating. Meditating, I believe, is a great reset for our minds, but I’m terrible at it! I’ve tried all the apps and can’t seem to settle into it. It’s on my bucket list.
I love red-light therapy. I’ve used a Celluma for the past few years—especially throughout my fertility journey—and still love it ‘til this day. It’s great to use on achy body parts and my face as an anti-aging tool.
I also love my pranamat acupressure mat. It takes some time getting used to it at first, but I definitely feel so relaxed afterwards and it’s a great way to be off my phone and disconnect.
You’ve opened up about your long fertility journey to advocate for other women who might be struggling. What are the top tips you give to women dealing with infertility, especially if they’re over 35?
I think my biggest piece of advice is to remember that this is a medical diagnosis and you should give yourself as much grace as you can. This is not your fault and you are so strong to be walking this path. As someone who dealt with infertility for five years, I know how it can completely alter your life, mindset, and happiness. I found knowing I wasn’t alone and finding a support system that understood me was the most valuable thing I could give myself in those uncertain times.
Could you describe your self-care routine? How do you prioritize self-care during your busy routine (especially as a new mom)?
I have always loved skincare. Since I was a kid, I loved the routine of it all—and I still do to this day—but as a new mom, time is of the essence!
I wash my face with cold water (never cleanser, unless to take makeup off) and then use my serums, moisturizer and eye cream. And, of course, sunscreen! I love vitamin C, niacinamide, retinol, squalane, hyaluronic acid, and heavier moisturizers at night to lock in hydration.
Do you have any go-to beauty hacks?
I use Aquafor on my lashes with a lash brush after I curl them for my day-to-day mascara. I hate mascara smudges, and with day-to-day mom activities, it’s good to know my lashes can still look good without having to wear mascara!
My eyes tear a lot in the wind and cold, and I’ve found if I use a dot of Vaseline in the corners of my eyes, it somehow how greatly helps that annoying situation. (Especially when I’m in glam and the tears start pouring—not fun!)
We’re all about living fully, aging well, and celebrating every stage of life. What do you love most so far about getting older?
I feel like I’m finally coming into my own in my forties and I’m confident in who I am, my skin, what’s important to me, and what makes my life feel most full. Aging is going to happen, so we better embrace it and flaunt the wisdom that comes along with it!
“Aging is going to happen, so we better embrace it and flaunt the wisdom that comes along with it! ” - Tara Lipinski
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