My Fitness Journey as I Age: Finding Confidence in Swimwear and Strength
Hi, I’m Kate, the founder of Suncheeter Australia. My mission is simple, to empower mature women to feel confident in swimwear and enjoy the beach without self-consciousness. I design swimwear for the mature woman, helping women rediscover the joy of sun, sand, and sea.
But like many of the women, my own journey hasn’t been without challenges. Here’s my fitness story.
Living With Swimsuit Anxiety
Every summer, I feel that familiar hesitation. Warmer weather means slipping into swimwear, and as my body has changed with age, I sometimes struggle with how different it feels compared to the body I knew for over 40 years. Fuller, softer, and thicker; it’s an adjustment that takes courage.
That’s exactly why Suncheeter exists. Our swimwear is designed to give women confidence in their changing bodies and just get out there living to the max.
You can read about our shape guide here
Fitness as Part of Ageing Well
As a 50+ woman, fitness has become a way I stay connected with my body and manage the changes that come with age. My health is generally good, though I’ve had back issues (including bulging discs) and a joint that occasionally complains. That means I need to be smart about how I move.
I focus on a few core habits:
- Eating well and prioritising sleep
- Taking Vitamin D (a must in Melbourne!)
- Adding Agemate, a supplement designed for healthy ageing, which has noticeably improved my sleep
For me, fitness isn’t about aesthetics, it’s about strength, flexibility, balance, and staying active for as long as possible.
Finding the Right Kind of Exercise
Since my thirties, I’ve been committed to fitness, though intense workouts have sometimes left me injured. Recently, I discovered Bewell Hawthorn, a wellness center close to home, and it has been a game changer.
Their approach ticks every box for me:
- Strength training with safe, effective equipment
- Pilates for balance and concentration
- Yoga and meditation for flexibility and calm
Guided by their dedicated and knowledgeable team, the classes are gentle yet effective with little risk of injuries or setbacks. I like to call it the “Oak Tree approach”: slow, steady, graceful growth that helps you stay strong and capable for life.
Recovery, Community, and Connection
What makes Bewell truly special is the whole-body approach. From infrared saunas and hot-cold baths to oxygen pods and compression recovery, they help keep my body feeling its best.
But just as importantly, they offer community. I’ve met so many wonderful people around my age and older on similar fitness journeys. We laugh, share wisdom, and connect, it feels like I’ve found a like minded tribe.
Thoughtful Designs that Solve Problems
I design swimwear that I want to wear at the beach, product that offers just enough coverup, specifically for women like us. Designed to fit mature body shapes with tummy friendly designs for women who demand comfort, style and superior quality.
From supportive Swim Dresses to Swim Tops, and thigh-rub free Swim Leggings in 4 leg lengths, our collections are made to encourage you step onto the sand with confidence. No more oversized tent coverups, no more staying home, just freedom to enjoy the beach again.
Strong, Capable, and Confident
I’m no superhero, but I am very happy to say I am strong, flexible, and capable. I can balance with ease, walk without losing breath, and touch my toes, and that makes me feel young again.
And the aligns with the Suncheeter values. We’re here to remind women that confidence doesn’t come from chasing perfection, but from embracing who you are today. On the beach, at the gym, or anywhere life takes you. You deserve to feel strong, stylish, and free.