Why Muscle Loss Sabotages Weight Loss & Fat Loss for Women Over 50 [Ep 55]

Have a question or a topic for an episode? Send Lisa a text.

Host Lisa DuPree answers a listener question: “Does losing muscle mass make you weigh more?” and unpacks the deeper truth about body composition, metabolism, and the term “skinny fat.”  She explores why muscle is your midlife metabolic engine and why weight alone doesn’t tell the whole story.

Sharing science-backed insights, Lisa explains the role of sarcopenia, and reflects on her personal journey training for a physique competition at 59. This episode is a call to action for women over 50 to rethink fitness, prioritize strength training, and embrace a confident, energized life. 

Plus: Winners of the 3-year anniversary giveaway, including a free coaching session, a personalized fitness plan, and a favorite motivational book are announced!

Ready to get started - Check out the Jumpstart Coaching resources: 

Apply for a free strategy session

Jumpstart Program Mini-Course helps you create a health and fitness plan that fits your lifestyle. Over five days, you’ll receive actionable tips to improve your nutrition, exercise, and recovery - all tailored to the unique needs of women over 50.

Jumpstart Checklist - Download the free checklist and jumpstart your journey to a fitter, stronger, more confident and happier you.

Key Moments

[01:00] Listener Question: Does Losing Muscle Make You Weigh More?
The short answer is no—but the truth is more complex and more important.
[02:00] Muscle = Metabolic Power
Lisa explains how muscle supports your metabolism even at rest and how its loss leads to fat gain and slowed energy burn.
[03:00] Sarcopenia Explained: Age-Related Muscle Decline
A deeper dive into why women start losing muscle in their 30s and 40s
[04:30] A Real-Life Example: Muscle Loss Impact on Metabolism
Lisa breaks down calorie burn and muscle loss math using an example.
[05:30] What is “Skinny Fat”?
A compassionate discussion of what many women feel—normal scale numbers but low energy, soft body composition, and frustration.
[07:00] Why the Scale Isn’t the Whole Story
You can weigh the same and look/feel very different based on muscle mass.
[08:00] Strength Training is Your Midlife Secret Weapon
Lisa explains why cardio alone won’t cut it—and why strength training is the key to lasting fat loss, body change, and health.
[09:30] Lisa’s Current Body Recomposition Experience with the Scale
First-hand insight into how her body has changed despite scale fluctuations.
[11:00] If You’re Feeling Stuck—You’re Not Alone
How her Jumpstart Coaching Program helps women over 50 finally feel strong and

Thanks for listening!

🎉 Free Resources 🎉

Jumpstart Checklist - Download the checklist and jumpstart your journey to a fitter, stronger, more confident and happier you. Get it here!

Midlife Mojo Jumpstart mini-course to create a health and fitness plan that fits your lifestyle. Over five days, you’ll receive actionable tips to improve your nutrition, exercise, and recovery—all tailored to the unique needs of midlife.

To help you set positive, motivating goals you are excited about, get this free Goal Setting for Success Worksheet.