Why Exercise Matters So Much During Menopause (And How to Reset Your Body Now)

Menopause is a natural stage of life, usually arriving in your late 40s or 50s, but let’s be honest—it rarely feels natural when your body suddenly changes without your permission. Hot flushes, mood swings, stubborn belly fat, restless nights, low energy… sound familiar?

The truth is, the drop in estrogen during this time has a ripple effect on every system in your body. Bone density weakens, heart health risks rise, and weight tends to creep on (especially around the middle). Add in the emotional rollercoaster and it’s easy to feel out of control.

But here’s the good news: exercise is one of the most powerful tools you have to reclaim balance, strength, and confidence through menopause.

The Benefits of Exercise During Menopause

  1. Weight Management
    Hormonal shifts can make it harder to maintain a healthy weight. Exercise helps stabilise metabolism, reduce belly fat, and lower the risk of obesity-related diseases.

  2. Bone Health
    Low estrogen = weaker bones. Strength training and weight-bearing activities protect your bone density and reduce the risk of osteoporosis and fractures.

  3. Heart Health
    Your risk of cardiovascular disease increases after menopause. Exercise strengthens your heart, supports circulation, lowers blood pressure, and balances cholesterol.

  4. Mood & Mental Health
    Exercise boosts endorphins—your natural mood lifters. It helps fight depression, anxiety, and those unpredictable mood swings.

  5. Better Sleep
    Struggling to stay asleep? Regular activity can improve sleep patterns and leave you feeling more rested.

  6. Hot Flush Relief
    Studies suggest active women often experience fewer and milder hot flushes.

  7. Hormonal Support
    Exercise helps regulate insulin, cortisol, and other hormones, easing the intensity of menopause symptoms.

  8. Confidence & Body Image
    Training builds strength on the outside and inside. You’ll notice changes in how your body looks and—more importantly—how you feel.

  9. Social Connection
    Group classes, training buddies, or walking clubs reduce isolation and give you a much-needed boost of community.

  10. Cancer Prevention
    Regular exercise may lower your risk of certain cancers, including breast cancer.

Where to Start

The best exercise routine combines:

  • Strength Training (to build lean muscle and protect your bones)

  • Cardio (to support your heart and metabolism)

  • Flexibility & Recovery (to reduce stress and prevent injury)

But here’s the key: you don’t need to do it all at once. Small, consistent steps create powerful change.

Ready to Reset?

This is exactly why I created The SHIFT Happens Project, my brand-new 6-Week Program designed to help women:

  • Establish the foundational habits that last a lifetime

  • Build strength and energy without exhausting workouts

  • Balance hormones naturally with smart training and nutrition

  • Reframe menopause as your time to thrive, not decline

👉 Find out more here

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What is Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)? A Complete Guide for Women in the UK