It is no secret that exercise is important in life, no matter what age you are or what is going on in your life. But when it comes to menopause, it is an especially important time to focus on exercise. Here are some tips, tricks, and information for success!
Why do you need to exercise at the beginning, during, and after menopause?
Significant hormonal shifts occur during menopause, with the most notably being estrogen. Often times, weight gain, loss of bone density, mood swings, joint pain, fatigue, and poor sleep (among many other symptoms) can be noted. Exercise can help ease these symptoms, and reduce the risk of other conditions.
Side note: do NOT let TikTok tell you that your metabolism does not slow as you age or that menopause also can cause weight gain. This is just a ploy to get followers or to get you to buy products.
What kind of exercise?
Weight bearing and resistance exercise can be particularly beneficial with bone loss (i.e. osteopenia or osteoporosis). Any kind of exercise, whether cardio, strength training, or yoga, can improve your metabolism and help burn calories. Therefore, it can assist with weight loss and help tone underperforming areas. Which, in turn, can improve overall aches and pains. And, exercise of any kind can help improve sleep quality. And, exercise can function like an excellent anxiety reducer or help control issues with mild depression.
But, most importantly, choosing exercise that you actually like is most important. The gym is not for you? Don’t sweat it, walk the dog daily instead. You can’t handle the elements outside? Go mall walking. You love to get your hands dirty and work on your yard? Piddle in your yard daily and watch your step count accumulate. Have zero motivation? Get a personal trainer or exercise buddy to keep you accountable.
Want more information?
Check out this article released by the National Institutes of Health: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3296386/
Happy trails!
Heal today, transform tomorrow. Unlock your potential to heal, learn and grow. – Dr. Barb Wally, LLC
Note: These blog articles are not in exchange for a one on one Physical Therapy visit. Please contact me if you are interested in receiving a Physical Therapy visit!
*This content is original and copyright Dr Barb Wally, LLC*
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