A WOMAN YOUR AGE

A WOMAN YOUR AGE” is the most annoying phrase. It’s typically said in a patronizing way. For example, by the (older, male) Orthopedic Surgeon who told me to stop doing the activities I love the most:  Skiing, squatting heavy weights, and rowing. 
 
I went to him for help with my knee pain. Instead, he told me that “a woman YOUR age” shouldn’t do these things because “you have to accept you’re not in your 20s anymore.”  He said my symptoms were due to my age and hormones, and to find other activities that were easier on my knees.
 
I was devastated. I especially couldn’t imagine giving up skiing: a sport that had changed my life profoundly and given me so many memories and deep friendships.
 
I felt sorry for myself for a day. Then I set out to prove him wrong. His diagnosis made no sense to me, not to mention being AGEIST & SEXIST 😡. (Would he have said the same to a man??)
 
Turns out, not only had he misdiagnosed me, but since then I’ve gotten stronger, skied more challenging terrain, and squatted heavier weights.
 
So when somebody tells you that “a woman YOUR age” shouldn’t be doing what you love to do, IGNORE them (or at least get a second opinion if it's medical). Keep using your body as long as you can, enjoy what you love to do, and prove them wrong!
 
👇🏼 Has anyone told YOU that you should/shouldn’t do something at “YOUR” age? Share below!