About Bonnie Gabaldon
The Woman Behind Bodies of Evidence -- Fitness Over 40
Bonnie Gabaldon has spent more than five decades living, testing, and refining what actually produces strength, health, and longevity. Long before fitness trends came and went, she built her body—and helped others build theirs—through evidence-based exercise, disciplined nutrition, and progressive training. Fitness Over 40: Bodies of Evidence reflects a lifetime of lived results, now increasingly validated by science, and written for those who want clarity instead of fads.
This is the new 65.
Doctors familiar with my level of physical fitness told me, "Whatever it is you're doing, don't stop."
I didn't.Hello. My name is Bonnie Gabaldon. Fitness Over 40: Bodies of Evidence is an information-based website grounded in what actually works to build and maintain fitness—not the latest exercise or diet fads. Its foundation is simple: results matter. Evidence matters.
My own physical condition is one such body of evidence. Increasingly, I am far from alone.
I developed this site because I’ve lived the subject matter for decades. I began what is now called biohacking at the age of eighteen—long before the term existed. Through years of experimentation, application, and observation, many of us discovered what worked well before it was embraced by the medical community. While authors later wrote about “new” discoveries in exercise and nutrition, these principles were already realities for those of us who had been living them.
Hiked my first two Colorado Fourteeners at the age of 60.At forty, I enrolled in college to pursue a degree in biochemistry with the intention of researching elite athletes and writing about my findings. Although I later changed majors and went to laws school, my passion for science and commitment to a fitness-centered lifestyle never changed. As early as my thirties, physicians inevitably began asking questions about my health and fitness. Because of the growing interest over the years, I considered writing a book—but chose to build a website instead. A website allows information to evolve as knowledge grows.
Medical science lagged behind lived experience for decades. Many of us didn’t yet understand why certain approaches worked—but we knew they did, because our bodies were anecdotal evidence. Today, research increasingly explains and validates the cause-and-effect relationships we experienced firsthand.
Unfortunately, there is evidence around us that demonstrates how some things don't work—bodies dying or suffering from chronic and debilitating diseases when 70% of those conditions are preventable. And, no, they are not a "normal" part of aging.
Share your journeys with a good friend—and don't forget your camera!
The Making of a Fitness Lifestyle
I began lifting weights at seventeen because I didn’t want to be skinny anymore. Within a year, my body had changed—toned, strong, and shapely. That transformation sparked a lifelong interest in exercise and nutrition.
Several years later, my doctor was so impressed by how quickly my body recovered after childbirth that he referred female patients to me. Two weeks after my first baby was born, I looked great in a bikini. That experience shifted my curiosity into conviction.
Your tips help support this free information website. Thank you.In the early 1970s, women were rarely seen lifting weights. Yet that was where I found common interest and a new language—learning from the original “hackers”: bodybuilders. In 1973, while serving as assistant manager of a women’s health spa, I noticed that the lighter weights and exercise programs were slow to produce results. Drawing on what I’d learned, I increased resistance, repetitions, and sets. The improvements were undeniable.
In the 1980s, I became a fitness consultant and certified aerobics instructor. I trained competitive bodybuilders, judged competitions, and eventually walked away from the sport when natural physiques were eclipsed by banned substances. Over the years, I consulted with and trained numerous physicians—many of whom admitted their lack of formal education in diet and exercise science. Their results led them to refer friends, family, and patients.
One Nut Can Grow Into a Magnificent Tree
Because some things are worth being around for. My mother and granddaughter's hands (2003).For decades, those of us focused on exercise, nutrition, and supplementation were dismissed as “health nuts.” We were told vitamins were useless. Oils wouldn’t absorb through the skin. Heavy lifting was dangerous—especially for women and older adults.
Fast forward.
Today, medications and therapies are routinely delivered transdermally. Research confirms the importance of resistance training as we age. Exertion isn’t optional—it is essential as we get older. Without progression, there is no progress.
I ignored well-meaning warnings like “You shouldn’t lift that heavy” or “Maybe you should slow down.” Such advice seemed absurd when I had no indications of health problems or physical limitations. At forty-nine, my body told a different story.
BONNIE GABALDONNot finding what you're looking for?
The Bodies of Evidence Site Map, is a great place to discover articles tailored to your interests.
Research in aging, sports medicine, and preventative health continues to validate what many of us already knew. Yes, studies sometimes conflict. Yes, recommendations shift. But fads became easy to spot as I watched the same exercise movements rebranded over the years.
“Core training” is a perfect example. We just called it something else. I’ve trained "core" consistently since the early 1970s. Half a century later, my body reflects that commitment.
Nothing in life is bulletproof—but decades of undeniable evidence deserve respect.
Exploring the Bottom of the Ocean -- 62-years old
I Want You to Be Inspired
At sixty-five, I thought I was an “older” example of good lifestyle choices. I now know better. I’ve met men and women in their seventies and beyond who still lift, ski, bike, hike, and compete—living proof of what is possible.
As reflected in this site's heading, my hope is that you will soar like an eagle into your sunset years—above the storms, not beneath them.
It is never too late to slow, stop, or reverse physical decline.
It is a choice. And there are bodies of evidence that prove it.
Not finding what you're looking for?
The Bodies of Evidence Site Map, is a great place to discover articles tailored to your interests.
Some of the advertisers on my website are affiliate partners, which means that I may receive a small commission from any sale, at no extra cost to you.
For example, the Amazon affiliate advertising program is designed to provide a means for sites to earn fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com.
Your tips and purchases help to support this free-information website.
Thank you.
The content of this website is for informational purposes only and not intended to be taken as a replacement for professional medical advice, care, diagnosis or treatment by a doctor, dietitian, physical therapist, nutritionist or fitness instructor.
DO NOT BEGIN ANY EXERCISE PROGRAM WITHOUT CHECKING WITH YOUR DOCTOR FOR UNDERLYING CONDITIONS THAT MAY PREVENT YOU FROM DOING SO.
WELCOME
I invite you to check out the Bodies of Evidence Site Map, where you can find articles on topics that fit your particular interests.
BONNIE'S FAVE
Ancient Nutrition Vanilla Collagen powder is my fave. It's a great addition to oatmeal, coffee, smoothies, etc. It's absolutely delicious!
Ancient Nutrition carries a wide variety of products, including protein, collagen, vitamins, probiotics, herbals, and essential oils, in order to meet the health needs of everyone. Popular items include Bone Broth Protein, Multi Collagen Protein, Organic SuperGreens, and Keto Supplements.
BONNIE'S FAVE!
DripDrop works 2 times faster and more effectively than water.