Menopause is the point in time twelve months after a woman’s last period
When does it start?
The menopause transition is a normal part of aging for women and is a natural process where a woman’s ovaries stop producing eggs and the production of female hormones declines.
Usually occurs between the ages of 40-50.
Common symptoms and physiological changes throughout the menopause transition include: hot flashes, irregularity of menstrual cycle, higher incidence of osteoperosis and coronary heart disease.
Is exercise safe during menopause?
Yes, it is recommended that perimenopausal and postmenopausal women engage in a structured exercise routine.
Exercise should include aerobic training, strength training and balance exercises.
Exercise is beneficial to address physiological changes during menopause.
Strength training helps improve muscle and bone mass which decreases with osteoporosis
Balance exercises help reduce the risk of falling which increase with aging
Aerobic exercise helps improve cardiovascular endurance
Exercise should be individualized and women should seek guidance from a medical professional prior to starting a new exercise routine.