Friday 18th October is World Menopause Day, dedicated to raising awareness of menopause and highlighting the support options available for those experiencing it. You might be wondering, what exactly is menopause? It is when a woman's menstrual cycle stops, usually between ages 45 and 55. This process is a normal part of life, but it can bring big changes to the body.

These changes can make women feel tired, hot, and irritable. It can also be harder for them to sleep or even stay fit. But here’s the good news: staying active at the gym can help women feel much better during menopause!

How Can Regular Exercise Help?

1. Boosting Mood and Energy

Exercise makes our bodies release something called "endorphins." These are chemicals that make us feel happy. Going to the gym regularly, whether it's for a walk on the treadmill or lifting weights, can help women feel more energetic and positive. This is important when hormones changes (chemical substances that act like messenger molecules in the body) during menopause can sometimes make them feel low or tired.

2. Keeping Bones Strong

Did you know that our bones can get weaker as we get older? For women, menopause can speed up this process. But by doing strength exercises at the gym, like lifting weights, women can keep their bones strong and healthy. Strong bones mean fewer injuries and staying active for longer!

3. Better Sleep

It’s common for women to have trouble sleeping during menopause. Exercise can help with this! After a good workout, the body is more relaxed and ready for rest. This helps people fall asleep faster and sleep more deeply.

4. Staying Cool

Some women experience "hot flashes" during menopause, where they suddenly feel very hot with profuse sweating. Regular exercise can help control these hot flashes over time, making them less intense. Plus, staying cool in the gym with air conditioning can help women feel comfortable while they workout.

5. Staying Social

Going to the gym isn’t just about physical fitness—it’s also about meeting new people and having fun! Whether it’s joining a yoga class, doing Zumba, or simply chatting with others after a workout, socialising at the gym can be a great way for women to feel connected and supported during menopause.

6. Nutritional Resources

Menopause Health Coach and Nutritionist, Michele Scarr, has you covered with an insightful FREE eBook:7 Secrets to a Happy Healthy Menopause for you to use if you might be experiencing menopause. Click the link below to download the eBook now with expert guidance on eating, exercising, managing stress, and getting better sleep during menopause.

CLICK HERE TO GET THE EBOOK FOR FREE

What Types of Exercises Are Best?

Here are some great types of exercises that can help women during menopause:

- Strength Training: Lifting weights helps keep muscles strong and protects bones.
- Cardio: Activities like walking, running, swimming, or cycling keep the heart healthy.
- Yoga and Pilates: These exercises help with flexibility, relaxation, and balance, which are important during menopause.

Menopause is a natural part of every woman's life, and while it brings on many tough challenges, staying active at the gym can make it a lot easier to handle. Fitness4Less offers a variety of ways to stay healthy and feel great during this time. So, whether it’s lifting weights, taking a calming yoga class, or just walking on the treadmill, the gym can be a wonderful place for women to take care of their bodies and minds during menopause.