Hi Corinne, So glad to provide helpful info for you! Definitely keep it in mind if you begin to do any strength training to tone muscles – bodyweight exercises or using weights.

Hi Lindsay, I completely understand about not knowing about protein shakes. I was brand new to all of this when I started about 10 years ago. The protein shakes I drink only have about 100 calories, but even more important are the benefits of drinking a fast digesting protein after working out. Read some of my protein posts on my website where I explain all of the benefits – it’s really so important to our success (especially after 40) to get enough protein daily, and get protein to our muscles quickly after working out. Let me know if you have specific questions I can help you with. stephanie@44.204.5.12

Penny, Congrats on your marathon! I am not a big runner but I have heard it can take a while to recover from them. In terms of day to day workouts, you would likely feel an improvement in recovery by using Ignition with a fast digesting protein powder in combination, especially as you move into more strength training.

That smoothie sounds delicious! You may want to look into adding a good protein powder to that also to help repair your muscles. (Muscle repair is crucial to toning = higher metabolism = more fat burn) For the tightness, a regular yoga/stretch day instead of a regular workout day would be beneficial. I have struggled with tight hamstrings also. Also, make sure to stretch out well after exercising.