menopause, motivation and more

Are we doing enough? Recently I read we should all be doing a minimum of 2 and a half hours of exercise a week.

Depending where in the world you live the changing seasons may bring challenges when it comes exercising outdoors. If autumn and winter are approaching dark nights close in quick and fast. If you’re heading into to summer, I feel exercise is easier.

My preference is outdoors. Remember the fun you had as a child. I certainty do. Our friend’s mum would drop us off at Harlestone Firs or Abington Park sometimes armed with bandy nets. Out of her orange mini and off we’d go. No mobiles back in the day, probably a few bags of crisps and a drink to share!

Exercise or rather being active doesn’t have to be the gym or running. I know ladies with dog walking groups. I love hiking. I’d say whatever takes your fancy.

Time

Give the multitasker in you a rest. Taking time for ourselves is important. My theory is the better I feel, the better everyone feels around me. My preference is morning exercise. Whatever you do has to fit into your day and lifestyle. When I worked in the UK I’d run mornings week days around 6am. Weekends with a running buddy, which really helped if it was raining or chilly. On those days I would never have gone if it wasn’t for her. I also had a gym membership but struggled working out after work. I’d often go with good intentions and find myself chatting in the changing rooms all kitted out, ready to hit the weights, or treadmill, then decide not to bother.

tips

home workouts

If I don’t fancy a run my go to is growingannanas, you’ll find her on YT. All levels, lots of variety. From Pilates, yoga, strength and tabata. I enjoy strength and tabata.

Skiing

I live in the Alps so skiing is my sport of choice during the winter. From December to mid April. The days I’m not skiing it’s on my mat for a growingannanas session.

lastly

Muscles matter enormously especially as we age. There are different kinds of muscle. The muscle I’m referring to is skeletal muscle, this we have control of. We’re able to build and retain with resistance exercise.

Sport, exercise is important at any stage of life, even more so during perimenopause and beyond. We all know by now the importance of retaining strong bones to ward off osteoporosis. Retaining muscle mass, strength and flexibility help our bodies remain well, not forgetting our brain.

Everyday isn’t easy, more will than want. Sometimes I’m not in the mood to run or workout, but I know for sure I feel better afterwards. Energised, focused and my concentration improves. Let’s be honest sometimes I’m glad it’s over!!

I’d say find your own momentum!

What are you doing?