Exercise and Menopause: What a Personal Trainer Wants You to Know

When a woman permanently stops getting her period, she has reached menopause, which is often called the “change of life.” This ends a woman’s ability to give birth to children, according to Johns Hopkins Medicine. Menopause comes with various challenges, from vasomotor symptoms such as hot flashes to moodiness, muscle loss and weight gain. To shed light on the importance of exercise during menopause, a personal trainer offers insights on the types of exercises that can help you stay strong and healthy. Why is exercise during menopause important? “Menopause is when several changes occur physically, mentally and emotionally in a woman’s body,” says Patricia Greaves, a certified fitness trainer, corrective exercise specialist and nutrition coach. “A consistent exercise routine can help women survive and thrive through menopause.” Greaves is the founder of StrongHer Personal Training, which aims to improve overall wellness for women over 40. She is also part of the Strength in Diversity Initiative, a mentoring program for trainers from marginalized communities. A sedentary lifestyle isn’t good for anyone. But if you’re approaching menopause (perimenopausal) or already in menopause, being active can significantly improve your quality of life and ease some symptoms as you transition. One study showed that...