Getting in shape is often a major goal for many that have experienced a gradual weight gain over time. You might have noticed that as you get older the challenge of losing weight might seem even more stressful. For whatever reason, you just aren't able to get in shape as quickly as you did when you were younger. The truth is that once you hit a certain age, you begin to lose about a half pound of muscle a year, which is then replaced with fat.

In order to combat this, you should be realistic with yourself. If you were able to eat whatever you wanted, not exercise and never gain a pound, chances are slim that you will be able to do the same as you begin to age. It is important to learn and expect that getting in shape quickly isn't going to happen as easily as it did before. Getting in shape for someone around 40 years old is going to require much of the same strategy, just with more dedication and a little more work.

The key to losing weight is always to eat less and move more, by doing this you will burn more calories and fat. Another great addition to your routine is to begin weight training, the more muscle you have the quicker the weight loss process will be. Building muscle will help to increase the body's ability to burn fat at a higher rate. The key to doing this lies in your intensity, you have to be able to turn the dial up a notch or two to begin to see some real progress. In fact building muscle is going to be your biggest ally to getting in shape fast.

It isn't necessary for you to perform the same workouts that a 20 year old would, but you do need to find workouts that fit your lifestyle and your ability. The biggest advantage that you are going to have over those young ones is your maturity level and the ability to keep things in perspective.

Getting in shape may not be possible in the same way it was when you were young, but you can do it. If you realize your limitations and work within them, you can find a way to meet your goals.