BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine Podcast Staying fit in later life in the garden, with Jacqueline Hooton
Nov 27, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Jacqueline Hooton, a fitness coach and founder of Her Garden Gym, shares her journey from retail to advocating for women's health, particularly focusing on those over 50. She emphasizes the powerful benefits of gardening for physical fitness and mental well-being. Jacqueline introduces simple garden exercises and stresses the importance of bone health and functional movement. She also discusses the role of habit formation in maintaining an active lifestyle and her mission to challenge ageism in fitness, promoting the idea that it's never too late to get fit.
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Fitness Sparked By Motherhood
- Jacqueline traced her interest in fitness to becoming a mother and wanting energy to care for her children.
- She learned targeted training after working with a personal trainer around age 38 and it changed her approach to exercise.
Exercise As Science, Not Guesswork
- Jacqueline realised exercise has a scientific method to improve strength, cardio and flexibility.
- Targeted, goal-driven training beats unfocused gym visits or random runs.
Remove Barriers To Participation
- Do make exercise accessible and inclusive by removing barriers like clothing, timing or fear of gyms.
- Try using outdoor or private garden spaces to attract women who avoid public gyms.
