Pushing 40 is Exercise Enough

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“Pushing 40 is Exercise Enough” is a humorous joke about aging that's well-known in American pop culture. It relies on a double meaning: “pushing 40” signifies both nearing forty and physical effort, suggesting that simply growing older is already a workout. Often given as a gag gift for milestone birthdays, this self-deprecating humor about aging reflects the attitude of those reaching middle age, blending irony with laughter.

Russ Berrie and Company, Inc. was a well-known manufacturer of gift products, including stuffed animals, collectible figurines, and novelty mugs. Founded by Russell Berrie, the company experienced major growth after becoming publicly traded in the early 1980s. Over time, it was acquired by other firms and now continues to exist as a brand under a different parent company.