By Beth Allott Hales
Moving is so important for health and even more so for those approaching menopause.
Here are a few tips to help.
1. As you approach menopause you start to lose muscle mass and gain abdominal fat, which also increases risk to diabetes and heart disease if left unchecked. Regular exercise will help to prevent this weight gain. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate intensity exercise such as brisk walking, 5-7 days a week.
2. It is common to experience mood swings, low mood and anxiety around the perimenopause and menopause. Exercise can offer invaluable head space whilst it also releases endorphins (the happy hormones!) that help ease feelings of stress. Try engaging in relaxing activities such as yoga, tai chi and meditation to bring back a sense of balance.
3. After menopause women are at a higher risk of developing osteoporosis (weakening of the bones) due to hormone changes. Exercise, particularly weight bearing exercise, can help to slow bone loss, reducing the risk of fractures in later life. Aim to do weight bearing exercise that involves muscles in the upper and lower body, twice a week.
4. Listen to your body. During menopause your body is undergoing a huge change so be kind. Push yourself some daysbut do take time out to relax and reset on others. If you take a holistic balanced approach to exercise you are much more likely to avoid energy dips, mood swings and sleepless nights.
Beth Allott Hales is a Health & Wellbeing Coach and Heart Mind Body Associate.
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