“If physical activity were a drug, we would refer to it as a miracle cure, due to the great many illnesses it can prevent and help treat”.
Why Staying Fit is Essential for Women
- Preventing Disease: Regular physical activity lowers the risk of breast cancer in women, colon cancer, and reduces the risk of early death by up to 30%. It also plays a key role in preventing type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and strokes.
- Bone and Joint Health: Weight-bearing exercises and strength training are crucial for women to combat rapid bone density loss during peri- and post-menopause, significantly reducing the risk of osteoporosis and hip fractures.
- Hormonal Health Management: Exercise helps regulate the hormonal fluctuations experienced throughout a woman’s life (from teenage years through menopause) and can alleviate symptoms of PMS.
- Mental Health and Mood Regulation: Exercise is as effective as antidepressants for mild-to-moderate depression and reduces stress. It stimulates brain chemicals that improve mood, confidence, and sleep quality.
- Healthy Aging and Autonomy: Regular activity helps maintain independence by preserving muscle strength and balance, reducing the risk of falls in older age.
Targeted Benefits Across Lifespan
- 20s-30s: Focus on building bone mass and maintaining metabolism.
- Pregnancy & Postpartum: Aerobic exercise reduces risks of gestational diabetes and postpartum depression.
- Perimenopause/Menopause (40s-50s): Strength training is crucial to combat 5% muscle mass loss per decade and manage weight gain.
- 60s+: Focus on balance, flexibility, and maintaining mobility.
George Hoppett, Health and fitness manager based at SWF swimming pool discusses the SWF Health & Fitness scheme, click here to hear the short interview.
Further details of subsidised scheme in SWF – see details here or phone 01245 606569 or go to csaw@chelmsford.gov.uk
Online advice from Dr Lynette Ewart, GP & Strength Coach (no connection to the local initiative)
Dr John Cormack