Ep 105: Ladies! You CAN Build Incredible Strength and Vitality in Your 40s, 50s, and Beyond with Cheryl Ilov

Today, I am speaking with Cheryl Ilov, a dynamic force who challenges the misconceptions of aging, fitness, and the power of the female spirit. She is a physical therapist, martial artist, dancer, and author. With over 20 years of experience in private practice, she has helped thousands of clients recover from pain and injuries by integrating the science of physical therapy with the art of movement. Cheryl is also a second-degree black belt in an ancient Japanese martial art called Ninpo Tai Jutsu, which she began training at 47. She is the author of two books: “Forever Fit and Flexible: Feeling Fabulous at Fifty and Beyond,” and “The Reluctant Ninja: How A Middle-Aged Princess Became A Warrior Queen.” She hosts The FemiNinja Project podcast, which is about overcoming obstacles, personal empowerment, restoring human dignity, and alternative health and healing. __________ Click here to apply for coaching! __________ Today you’ll learn all about: [2:40] Cheryl's passion for self-mastery [7:15] Misconceptions about aging, fitness, and being a woman [10:43] Definition and significance of the somatic movement [13:27] Your perspective on vitality [17:14] Top 3 recommendations for enhancing vitality [22:44] Starting martial arts training at 47 [29:05] Your unique challenges as the only woman in your martial arts class [35:09] Breaking gender barriers in martial arts [41:39] Comparison of Ninpo Tai Jutsu with other martial arts forms [44:30] Overcoming intimidation for women in martial arts [49:45] Practical application of martial arts in real-life threats [54:37] Safety and empowerment techniques for women [59:59] One question Cheryl wished Philip had asked [1:01:01] Where to learn more about Cheryl [1:02:37] Outro Episode resources: Website: cherylilov.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/cherylilovvitalityconsultant Podcast: The FemiNinja Podcast Books: Forever Fit and Flexible: Feeling Fabulous at Fifty and Beyond and The Reluctant Ninja: How A Middle-Aged Princess Became A Warrior Queen Support the show 📱 Get Fitness Lab - Philip’s science-based AI app for fat loss, muscle building, and strength training for people over 40. It adapts to your nutrition, recovery, and training to improve body composition without guesswork. 🎓 Try Physique University - Evidence-based nutrition coaching and strength training to help you lose fat, build muscle, and master your metabolism with support and accountability (free custom nutrition plan with code FREEPLAN ). 👥 Join our Facebook community - Free fat loss, muscle building, and body recomposition strategies for adults over 40 who want practical, science-backed fitness guidance. 👋 Ask a question or find Philip Pape on Instagram