We’re back this week with Part 2 of the Menopause blog series! I’m really excited to chat about this topic because this is the foundation of my knowledge as a Doctor of PT, Movement!
In the first part, we discussed the need of a lifestyle shift when you decide you want to improve upon menopause symptoms. Even if you are currently seeking or using medication, these shifts can be a great way to maximize other paths. If you’d like to read more about shifting your diet, check out Part 1!
Shifting Your Movement:
Pre and during menopause it is common to lose collagen therefore causing skin to sag, feel dry, and show fine lines and wrinkles. This drop in collagen along with estrogen also causes muscle mass to decrease, especially without a proper workout plan in place. Dips in muscle mass also lead to joint pain, as the muscles are not strong enough to support your joints and oftentimes inflammation is building as well. So what do we do about this?
The best workout program for females during perimenopause and menopause is strength training. These types of workouts tend to intimidate past clients of mine, especially those that do not have a normal workout routine. But I promise, you won’t be grunting and throwing weights in a gym just because you are strength training! It simply means doing exercises that have an outside source of weight (not just your body weight) demonstrate benefits to your bones and muscles during this time.
Strength training addresses top issues that occur during menopause including increased collagen production, bone density, and metabolism. While menopause doesn’t particularly sound or feel sexy, there are also studies that report an improvement in skin, weight, and stress levels which we find sexy around here!
I know that beginning something new can be scary and it can be so hard to find time in your schedule to make it a priority. The “knowledge is power” idea can only get you so far until it becomes time for “action or nothing”. Utilizing professionals such as trainers in person or online (check out my favorite personal online trainer!) can help ease the worry of trying a new workout routine.
You don’t have to navigate these changes alone, and you don’t have to accept being ignored by other health care providers. The right people are here waiting to help you!
As a Dr of PT and Certified Nutritional PT, I am ready to be your help, your guidance, and provide you the knowledge you need to advocate for your health and feel the best you can.
Chat Soon!
Dr. Alison
*This is advice based information, always consult with your personal physician
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