Welcome to Workout Diaries, a series where we ask expert trainers to talk us through what a week of exercise looks like for them, helping you figure out how to develop and maintain an effective workout routine.
As a women's health coach and menopause specialist, Kate Rowe-Ham knows that regular, varied exercise is important to aging well.
But as a busy mom of three running her own business, she also knows that time is a luxury.
That's why she anchors her morning with 30-45 minute sessions of strength training, cardio or mobility work.
“My workouts are designed to help me feel energized, not exhausted,” she says. “I want to walk away feeling strong, not punished.”
She tries to train five times a week, prioritizing movement that will help future-proof her body.
Below, she shares her weekly workout diary and her top tips for creating a sustainable exercise routine.
Kate’s weekly workout routine
Monday 6am
Upper-body workout
Tuesday 6am
HIIT
Wednesday 6am
Lower-body workout
Thursday 6am
Full-body workout
Friday 6am
Stretch
Saturday 10am
Core and upper-body workout
Sunday
Long walk/ rest day
Kate Rowe-Ham's top workout tips
1. Start small and prioritize consistency
Rather than setting yourself up for failure with unrealistic goals, focus on achievable targets and make sustainable changes.
“Start small, stay consistent, and build from there," says Rowe-Ham.
Try adding movement to your day with regular walks or aim for a few 15-minute workouts a week.
“Don’t overcomplicate it—your body craves movement, not perfection,” says the trainer.
2. Focus on how exercise makes you feel
Having unrealistic workout goals won't help you stick to your exercise plan, but forming daily habits that improve your mood and energy levels will.
“When you link movement to your energy, mood and long-term health, it becomes less about willpower and more about self-respect,” says Rowe-Ham.
“Focus on strength, balance and feeling good, and let that be your why.”
3. Don't despair if you go off track
While it's good to be consistent, it's also important to let yourself off the hook if you slip up and adapt plans as needed.
“Life happens! I’ve learned not to beat myself up when things don’t go as planned,” says Rowe-Ham.
“The key is to have a flexible mindset: if I can’t get a full session in, I’ll go for a walk, stretch or do a 15-minute mini workout at home.”
4. Pick the right time
Rowe-Ham says she's a morning person, so she likes to exercise first thing, as it sets a positive tone for her day.
However, that doesn't mean you have to stick to this routine.
“I always tell women to work with their bodies, not against them.
“If mornings feel overwhelming, choose a time that suits your rhythm and lifestyle. The best time to work out is the time you’ll actually do it.”
