Exercise is important to our fitness and general well-being as we age. Aging can cause older women to experience decreased muscle tone, flexibility, and endurance. Exercise can help remedy these problems. Yet many women don’t exercise because it’s often hard to get to the gym, or they think the only way to do it effectively is to hire a personal trainer.
But, one of the most powerful exercises for mature women is something that is often forgotten when it comes to exercises; walking. Walking can be done at any time and does not require any special training or equipment. Plus, walking has these 5 amazing benefits for postmenopausal women.
- Strengthens bones and joints
As women go through menopause, they often lose bone density. This loss of density can result in osteoporosis, a condition that causes bones to become brittle and brittle. In our middle-aged years our joints also suffer. After years of excessive use, the seals can become worn and sore. Walking increases blood flow to the bones and joints and therefore increases the amount of oxygen and nutrients in these areas. The result is a decrease in bone density and the joints receive more support.
- Low blood pressure
High blood pressure becomes a problem for many women after menopause. While blood pressure can often be controlled through the use of prescription medications, walking has been shown to be an additional way to lower blood pressure. Brisk walking increases circulation, strengthens the heart and therefore lowers blood pressure.
- makes you happier
One of the most common side effects of menopause in older women is depression and mood swings. This may be true even if these conditions were not previously a problem. Walking seems to help in this area by helping your body release endorphins. Endorphins are hormones that produce euphoria or an improvement in mood.
- increase your energy
As we age, our energy begins to decline. That easy two-mile jog you used to do every morning before work now takes more and more of you to pull off. While you may not be able to run, you may be able to walk briskly. A brisk 30-minute walk can give you the energy to get through the rest of the day.
- Improves your immune function
Aging and menopause take their toll on our bodies. More specifically, they weaken our immune system. It becomes easier to catch colds, viruses, and other illnesses because our natural defenses are lowered. Studies have shown that walking in its general effect improves our immune function and helps us fight diseases. This is especially important if your ultimate goal is longevity.
As you can see, walking has several benefits for mature postmenopausal women. It is an exercise that can be done, at your convenience or simply as part of your daily activities. One caveat, however, is that for maximum benefit, you need to walk quickly. You can start a brisk walking program on your own or get support by walking with friends. However, if you decide to make brisk walking part of an exercise program, always check with your doctor first.