In the realm of fitness, where every ounce of effort counts, one often-underestimated ally is nutrition.
It’s the fuel that propels us toward our athletic goals, and for those of us who’ve crossed the 40-year mark, it becomes even more critical.
I’m Nicole Zapoli, a fitness and nutrition coach in San Diego with over 30 years of experience in various athletic disciplines, and I’m here to shed light on the pivotal role of nutrition coaching, especially for individuals in their 40s and beyond.
Check out my NZ Nutrition app HERE!

The Nutritional Foundation
Imagine your body as a high-performance machine, and the fuel you put into it is the key to its optimal functioning.
As we age, our metabolism undergoes changes, and it becomes imperative to adapt our nutritional intake to suit our evolving needs.
This is where a fitness and nutrition coach steps in.
My approach to nutrition coaching is rooted in a holistic understanding of wellness.
I draw from my experience in gymnastics, dance, cheer, CrossFit, bodybuilding, powerlifting, tactical training, Olympic weightlifting, yoga , and US Olympic strength & conditioning methodologies.
This diverse background allows me to craft nutrition plans that cater to the unique requirements of individuals in their 40s and beyond.

The 40+ Challenge: Building Muscle Safely
For those of us in the 40+ age bracket, the pursuit of building muscle comes with its unique set of considerations. Safety becomes paramount, and this is where my coaching methodology shines.
I prioritize creating training protocols that revolve around optimal body mechanics and technique, ensuring that my clients build a solid movement foundation.
But why the emphasis on nutrition?
Well, muscle-building isn’t just about pumping iron; it’s about providing your body with the right nutrients to repair and grow muscle tissue.
As we age, our muscle mass tends to decrease, and maintaining or building muscle becomes increasingly challenging.
A well-structured nutrition plan can make a substantial difference.
The Nutritional Blueprint
A key component of my coaching services is crafting personalized nutrition plans tailored to the individual’s age, goals, and lifestyle.
The nutrition blueprint for someone in their 40s and beyond involves several vital elements:
- Protein Intake: Protein is the building block of muscle. Ensuring an adequate protein intake is crucial for muscle maintenance and growth. This is particularly important for those in their 40s, as protein requirements may increase with age.
- Hydration: Proper hydration is often overlooked but is essential for overall well-being and muscle function. As we age, our sense of thirst may diminish, making it even more critical to stay adequately hydrated.
- Supplementation: In some cases, especially for those with specific dietary restrictions or deficiencies, supplementation may be necessary. A nutrition coach can provide guidance on which supplements are appropriate and safe.
The Holistic Approach
Fitness and nutrition coaching isn’t just about charts and numbers. It’s about understanding the individual and their unique needs.
I don’t just dictate what to eat; I educate my clients on why certain foods are beneficial and how they can help achieve their goals.
It’s about empowering individuals to make informed choices about their nutrition.
The Path to a Stronger, Healthier You
As we progress through life, our bodies evolve, and our approach to fitness and nutrition must adapt accordingly.
For those of us in our 40s and beyond, building and maintaining muscle isn’t just about vanity; it’s about functional fitness, vitality, well-being, and overall quality of life.
I’m here to guide you on this journey.
My comprehensive coaching services encompass personalized nutrition plans, ongoing support, and accountability.
Together, we’ll ensure that your nutritional intake aligns with your fitness goals, helping you age gracefully, with strength, and vitality.
It’s not just about muscle; it’s about a stronger, healthier you.
Let’s work together to achieve your fitness goals!
Learn more and join my program at Click HERE!
Want a step-by-step guide to building strength, health, and happiness that actually lasts?
My book, “Live FIT from the Inside Out“, shares my 6 SHIFTS framework (Sleep, Hydration, Intake, Fitness, Thoughts, Sunshine), simple, sustainable, empowering tools to help you reclaim your energy, confidence, and quality of life without extremes.
From honest stories to practical strategies, this book is designed to help you finally make health feel like freedom, not another chore.
Grab your copy today and start your journey toward a stronger, healthier, happier you!

Remote Coaching to Help You Achieve Longevity + Live Your Highest Quality of Life
Are you ready to make longevity and your quality of life a priority, but not sure where to start?
That’s where my remote coaching program comes in! With my program, you’ll receive:
- Customized Programming: I design a training plan tailored to your current abilities and goals.
- Weekly Coaching Cues: Get detailed feedback and tips to refine your form and progress safely.
- Movement Demonstrations: Access videos that break down each progression step-by-step.
- Accountability and Support: Stay on track with direct email and SMS support, as well as monthly consultations.
Achieving long term fitness and wellness is something I will help you master as part of a comprehensive fitness and wellness plan.
Whether you’re looking to improve strength, mobility, or overall health, my program is designed to meet you where you are and take you to the next level.
Let’s work together to help you crush your fitness goals!
Learn more about my remote coaching program: Click HERE!
And because long-term results go beyond workouts, I’ve also partnered with some of the most trusted brands in fitness and wellness to bring you powerful tools and resources that support your journey:
NZ x Spren Collab: Gold standard body composition tracking right from your phone. Read the press release →
NZ Meals powered by Territory Foods: A curated, ready-to-eat menu created by me. Order here →
NZ Nutrition App: Personalized nutrition coaching + resources to fuel your goals. Explore here →




