Fitness tips for menopause

Regular physical activity is crucial for women facing menopause. Consider what physical activity can do for you — and how to apply fitness tips for menopause to your daily routine.

Wednesday, January 09, 2013

Regular physical activity is crucial for women facing menopause. Consider what physical activity can do for you — and how to apply fitness tips for menopause to your daily routine.Menopause is an important milestone in a woman’s life. Use it as a reminder to take good care of yourself. Start by considering these fitness tips for menopause.Why bother with fitness during menopause?Prevent weight gain. Women tend to lose muscle mass and gain abdominal fat during and after menopause. Even slight increases in physical activity can help prevent weight gain.Reduce the risk of breast cancer. Physical activity during and after menopause can help you lose excess weight or maintain a healthy weight, which may offer protection from breast cancer.Strengthen your bones.Physical activity can slow bone loss after menopause, which lowers the risk of fractures and osteoporosis.Reduce the risk of other diseases. During and after menopause, the risk of various chronic conditions — including cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes — increases. Regular physical activity can counter these risks.Boost your mood. Physical activity can improve your psychological health at any stage of life.What are the best physical activities to try?Try walking, jogging, biking, swimming or water aerobics.  Regular strength training can help you reduce body fat, strengthen your muscles and more efficiently burn calories. Remember, you don’t have to go to the gym to exercise. Activities such as dancing, gardening and other yard work also can improve your health. Whatever physical activities you choose, take time to warm up and cool down safely.Source; Mayo Clinic.com