In our latest episode of the 1st Optimal Podcast, we had the pleasure of speaking with Fiona Judd, a health coach and functional medicine expert who is passionate about empowering women in their 30s and beyond to take control of their health. Fiona’s journey is inspiring, and her insights into wellness, hormones, and self-care are invaluable for anyone looking to optimize their health, particularly women navigating perimenopause, menopause, or simply seeking long-term wellness.
From Zumba to Functional Medicine: Fiona’s Health Journey
Fiona’s path to becoming a health coach wasn’t straightforward, but it was deeply personal. She began her career in fitness after having children, initially using Zumba as a way to stay active and connected with her community. But as she got older, she noticed how her body was changing. Exhaustion, joint discomfort, and a general sense of being “off” led Fiona to seek professional help and eventually dive into the world of personal training and nutrition coaching. This was a transformative moment for her, one that helped her rebuild her strength and confidence, lessons she now passes on to her clients.
Myth-Busting: Debunking Common Fitness and Health Misconceptions
A key theme in this episode is myth-busting. Fiona is on a mission to challenge the idea that women shouldn’t lift heavy weights for fear of getting bulky. “The research is loud and clear, we need to lift heavier weights to support our long-term health,” she shares. Not only does strength training help with aesthetics, but it also contributes significantly to longevity. For women, especially as they age, maintaining muscle mass is crucial for overall well-being.
Additionally, Fiona addresses another damaging myth: that everything goes “downhill” after 40. Fiona, now 42, feels healthier and stronger than she did in her 30s. She encourages listeners to view their 40s and beyond as the beginning of a new chapter of strength and vitality, not as a time when health inevitably declines.
The Struggle: When Traditional Medicine Falls Short
Fiona also shared her own experience with the frustration of traditional medical care. After a series of blood tests, Fiona’s doctors repeatedly told her that everything was “normal”, even though she felt far from it. This disconnect led Fiona to seek out functional medicine, which provided a more comprehensive approach to her health. Through hormone testing and lifestyle adjustments, Fiona discovered that her progesterone levels were off, leading to mood swings and other symptoms. By supplementing with progesterone, she noticed a dramatic improvement in how she felt.
This experience highlights a critical point: normal lab results don’t always mean optimal health. Fiona’s story is a powerful reminder of the importance of advocating for your own health and seeking out practitioners who take a more holistic approach.
Nutrition and Practical Tips for Real-World Wellness
In the episode, Fiona discusses some of her go-to strategies for improving nutrition and overall health. One of her key tips is to start where you are, if you’re eating 60 grams of protein a day, don’t jump straight to 120. Gradual increases are more sustainable and manageable, and focusing on the quality of your food is paramount. Fiona emphasizes the importance of getting enough protein, fiber, and essential nutrients for both muscle-building and metabolic health.
She also advocates for a mindset shift when it comes to tracking nutrition. Rather than viewing it as a restrictive diet, Fiona teaches her clients to think of food as fuel for the body, helping them find balance and consistency over perfection. “The ultimate goal is for you to have a new way of eating that feels sustainable for life, not just a short-term diet,” she says.
The Power of Community and Support
Fiona’s coaching model goes beyond just physical health. She emphasizes the importance of community and accountability, especially when it comes to women supporting each other through their health journeys. Through her app, Fiona offers an interactive experience with features like coaching calls, community chat groups, and open office hours where clients can connect with others and get support whenever they need it.
Fiona’s retreat programs, like the one she’s hosting in Greece this October, provide a unique opportunity for women to take a break, focus on themselves, and connect with others who are on the same path to health and wellness.
Wrapping Up: Prioritizing Yourself for the Long-Term
The final piece of Fiona’s philosophy is about prioritizing yourself. She uses the metaphor of the airplane oxygen mask: you need to put your own mask on first before you can help others. “You can’t give from an empty cup,” Fiona shares. As women, it’s easy to get caught up in caregiving for others—whether it’s our families, careers, or communities. But if we don’t take care of ourselves first, we won’t be able to show up as the best version of ourselves for others.
Fiona’s story and the actionable tips she shares are a powerful reminder that we have the ability to take control of our health and well-being at any stage in life. Whether it’s through strength training, nutrition, or mindset shifts, Fiona’s approach helps women reclaim their health and live life with energy and confidence.
Listen to the full episode of the 1st Optimal Podcast with Fiona Judd and start taking the first step towards optimizing your health today.
Connect with Fiona Judd
Website: www.fitfionaj.com
Instagram: @fitfionaj
Facebook: FitFionaJ
Youtube Channel: @fitfionaJ
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Ready to begin your own fitness journey and take control of your health? Book your free consultation with 1st Optimal today and let’s explore how personalized coaching and expert-led strategies can help you achieve your health goals!
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