RIGHT PROFESSIONAL
Accredited Exercise Physiologist (AEP)
Accredited Exercise Physiologists can support you going through menopause as they understand the physiological and hormonal changes occurring throughout this timeframe.
An individualised exercise program can be developed for you to prevent the onset of chronic and complex conditions. At this change in life you need practitioners who have the professional skill and experience to work with your specific range of circumstances.
RIGHT PLACE
Exercise in the Outdoors
Canadian researchers found postmenopausal women reaped more benefits from outdoor workouts and were significantly more likely to adhere to their training program than those who did their exercising indoors.
A Calming Environment
If you are experiencing hot flushes it is recommended to exercise in a relaxed environment that has a focus on deep relaxed breathing such as yoga, Tai chi or low impact classes that focus on slow controlled breathing with the movement.
RIGHT TIME
Exercise in the morning
If you are experiencing hot flushes it is recommended you exercise in the morning to avoid exercising during the hottest part of the day. At this time of day, levels of the hormone cortisol are higher, which lowers insulin action and keeps blood glucose levels from dropping, and circulating. Insulin is also lower (prior to any insulin taken for breakfast).
Exercise before bed is also not recommended given the risk of delayed post exercise hypoglycaemia. When possible, scheduling similar timing of exercise into your daily routine maybe beneficial to minimize the risk of nocturnal hypoglycaemia.
A recent study published in the Journal of Diabetes Science and Technology early in 2015 found that overall, hypos occurred significantly less often following 7 AM exercise compared to 4 PM (5.6 vs. 10.7 hypos per person). That study compared blood glucose levels and the number of lows during and following moderate exercise for 36 hours.
Remember to always consult a professional before beginning any new exercise routine, and to find out what time may work best for you and your uniqueness.