Many women inching closer to their 40th birthday mistakenly believe that beginning a fitness regimen now is impossible. The good news, says Marla Ahlgrimm, is that there is never a bad time to prioritize physical fitness. Here, Ahlgrimm answers a few questions about how to get started as you prepare for menopause.
Q: What types of exercises can women start at 40?
Marla Ahlgrimm: The idea that exercises only for twentysomethings is something I strongly suggest letting go of. Exercise has numerous physical benefits, regardless of age. However, those who have never been one to hit the gym may wish to start with something like walking or jogging. Even aerobics classes, tennis, and martial arts can have a big impact on your health, no matter how many birthdays you’ve seen.
Q: What is the difference between aerobic and anaerobic exercises?
Marla Ahlgrimm: The exercises we’ve mentioned previously are typically considered aerobic. This means they involve steady durations of activity that get the heart rate up. Anaerobic exercises, by contrast, are short bursts of movement. An example would be weight training or lunges. Aerobic exercises require deeper breathing and cause the heart rate to skyrocket, intensifying blood flow through the lungs and muscles. Anaerobic exercises require less oxygen and breakdown glucose in the body.
Q: How can exercise benefit a woman entering menopause?
Marla Ahlgrimm: Having a healthy body is one of the best ways to reduce the effects of menopause, which might include irritability, weight gain, and fatigue. Taking control of your weight through diet and exercise can also help you feel better about yourself in a time when many women begin to experience confidence and self-esteem issues.
Marla Ahlgrimm suggests that women consult with their doctors before beginning any new physical fitness routine. She notes that not all forms of exercises are ideal for everyone, and some women may wish to start with things like swimming or yoga, which are low-impact and improve strength and flexibility.
Marla Ahlgrimm has co-authored two ground-breaking books,