Why Exercise Became More Social as I Got Older (And Why That Matters)

"From hating team sports to becoming a CrossFit coach in her 40s - Sian's journey proves it's never too late to find your passion and follow it." Sian's story will resonate with anyone who ever felt like exercise "wasn't for them" because they struggled with traditional sports. Her 20+ year journey from teenage discovery to career transformation shows how exercise can evolve from personal wellness to professional passion. Her inspiring journey includes: • Growing up thinking exercise meant team sports (and hating them) • Discovering running for pure joy at boarding school in England • Building a 20+ year habit that became "like brushing my teeth" • Completing 8 marathons - never fast, always for enjoyment • Exploring boot camps, Bikram yoga, Pilates, and finally CrossFit • Recognising exercise as "cheaper therapy than a psychologist" • Understanding how social connections become more important with age • Making the bold decision to step back from accounting to pursue coaching • Following passion over societal expectations in her early 40s Key Transformation Quote: "Once you get a bit older, you prioritise what you love." Mental Health Wisdom: "There's nothing a run can't solve. No matter how bad I'm feeling, you're never gonna regret it. It's my therapy. It's cheaper than a psychologist." Community Insight: "The social connection side has become more and more important over the years. You don't just miss the physical health benefits, it's the connection to your friends and the community you've built."