Staying Fit Through Menopause

No matter what you read about menopause, keeping fit is of great importance.  Weight gain, loss of muscle mass, and loss of bone density are prime concerns.  Also irregular sleep patterns, hot flashes, mood swings and a general matronliness can be helped with good habits.  Diet and exercise really matter and can extend your life and health. Changes in hormone levels can drive some of this but there are things you can do in addition to, or instead of, hormone replacement therapy to stay healthy.  There is no need to accept these changes as your fate - you do have some say in your future!  

That old phrase “Moderation is the key” has never been truer than when it applies to diet.  There is no need to deny yourself a little treat now and then.  We all know that denial just makes you want it more, but moderation and common sense should prevail!

One thing that seems to make the most difference is exercise and fitness.  Pilates can make the biggest difference.  The core strengthening improves posture and stamina.  The spring action on the Pilates Reformer machine is easy on joints too, but it is also beneficial to do strength training and aerobic exercise.  Bicycling, walking on a treadmill or outdoors, jogging, sports like tennis or whatever you enjoy, can do nothing but help you stay healthy and in shape. Water aerobics, calesthenics, done at home with the help of a DVD - as long as you keep moving you will keep healthy.