Menopause can present significant challenges for women trying to maintain a healthy weight.
As hormone levels fluctuate, many find it increasingly difficult to shed unwanted pounds. However, strength training may be the solution to this common issue.
Pilates guru and Balanced Body educator Portia Page spoke to GB News about the impact of menopause on the body. She said: “Menopause is marked by a decline in estrogen and progesterone levels, leading to various physical and emotional symptoms.
“Hormonal changes can lead to a slower metabolism and weight gain.”
This shift in metabolism can make it challenging for women to maintain their previous weight. Fortunately, strength training could be the way to beat these menopausal side effects.
By incorporating resistance exercises into their routines, women may find it easier to maintain a healthy weight during this transitional period.
Portia said: “Strength training increases muscle mass, which boosts the resting metabolic rate, helping to manage weight more effectively.”
By building lean muscle, women can counteract the metabolic slowdown associated with menopause. This increased muscle mass helps burn more calories even at rest.
As a result, strength training becomes a valuable tool for weight management. It’s not just about burning calories during exercise, but also about creating long-term metabolic benefits.
The expert highlighted its impact on body composition: “It can reduce body fat. Lower testosterone levels can lead to increased body fat, particularly around the abdomen.”
This is particularly relevant as many women experience increased abdominal fat during menopause.
Strength training provides a targeted approach to this issue and women can effectively combat the tendency towards increased body fat.
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Strength training targets body fat, especially around the abdomen, which is a common concern during this life stage. This not only aids in weight management but also contributes to overall health and well-being.
Beyond weight management, strength training also supports bone health, which is crucial during menopause when the risk of osteoporosis increases.
It can enhance balance and coordination, reducing the risk of falls. Additionally, strength training may help alleviate other menopausal symptoms, such as mood swings and sleep disturbances.
Overall, incorporating strength training into one’s fitness routine can be a powerful strategy for navigating the physical changes of menopause.
Source Agencies
