Why is fitness important during menopause?
Exercise during and after menopause offers many benefits, including:
Preventing weight gain. Women tend to lose muscle mass and gain abdominal fat around menopause. Regular physical activity can help prevent weight gain.
Reducing the risk of cancer. Exercise during and after menopause can help you lose excess weight or maintain a healthy weight, which might offer protection from various types of cancer, including breast, colon and endometrial cancer.
Strengthening your bones. Exercise can slow bone loss after menopause, which lowers the risk of fractures and osteoporosis.
Reducing the risk of other diseases. Menopause weight gain can have serious implications for your health. Excess weight increases the risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes. Regular exercise can counter these risks.
Boosting your mood. Physically active adults have a lower risk of depression and cognitive decline.
How does exercise affect menopause signs and symptoms?
Being overweight or having a BMI greater than 30 (obesity) might be associated with hot flashes, but further research is needed. Exercise isn't a proven way to reduce menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes and sleep disturbances. However, regular exercise can help you maintain a healthy weight, relieve stress and improve your quality of life.
For more information about Menopause:
NHS Menopause
British Menopause Society
*Before starting a new exercise program it is recommended you speak to your doctor first.
