Menopause:
Exercise
Our
bodies are designed in such a way that we can gain huge benefits from exercise.
The medical profession are gradually realising that many of the changes and ills
associated with ageing can be attributed to a lifetime of physical inactivity.
What benefits can exercise give?
Increased Physical
well-being
Helps weight loss (along
with eating sensibly)
Raises your mood by
activating endorphins in your brain
Clears your mind
Raises energy levels:
how invigorated do you feel after a good walk along the beach or in the
bush!
More flexible joints
& muscles
Reduced risk of high
blood pressure (up to 40%)
Reduced risk of heart
attack (by over 40%)
Reduced risk of stroke
(by 33%)
Reduced risk of diabetes
(by 29%)
Greater resistance
to infection
Increased self confidence
and self esteem
Better quality sleep
What type of exercise?
Here are a few suggestions:
Walking (with a friend)
Swimming (aerobic & benefits
all muscle groups)
Aerobics at gym
Cycling, great aerobic exercise.
Gentle weights
Aqua fitness
Yoga is excellent for flexibility
and to calm the mind, also Tai Chi
Dancing is fun
Any other aerobic activities
like golf, tennis etc, but do it because you enjoy it! Very little benefit will
be gained without the added bonus of enjoyment.
Weight training can help regain strength in our upper bodies and arms, which
we lose as we mature. Before beginning on any exercise program please check with
you health practitioner.
How often?
Try for at least 30 minutes each day, but if you have had many years of
inactivity, or little physical activity, it is important to begin slowly,
and also to check with your doctor before you begin
<< Back |