Exercise Physiology for Women's Health Conditions
As an Accredited Exercise Physiologist (AEP), I'm passionate about empowering women through movement and exercise, particularly in addressing the unique challenges they face throughout life. From periods to pregnancy, menopause and beyond, a woman's body goes through incredible changes. But did you know exercise can be a powerful tool to support you throughout these life stages?
In this blog series, we'll delve deeper into specific women's health conditions and how I, as an Exercise Physiologist, can design personalised exercise programs to manage varying women’s health conditions effectively.
Why Exercise Matters for Women's Health:
Manages menstrual cramps: Regular exercise can reduce the intensity and duration of period pain.
Boosts energy levels: Physical activity helps manage fatigue and improves sleep quality.
Supports a healthy pregnancy: Exercise during pregnancy helps maintain a healthy weight, reduce the risk of gestational diabetes, manage back/pelvic pain, and prepare for delivery.
Combats post-partum challenges: Movement can help with weight loss, improve mood, increase energy levels after childbirth, and pelvic floor health.
Mitigates menopause symptoms: Exercise can be a powerful tool against hot flashes, weight gain, and bone loss associated with menopause.
Promotes overall well-being: Physical activity strengthens muscles and bones, improves cardiovascular health, and boosts mental well-being, regardless of age.
Why Exercise Physiologists play a vital role for Women's Health:
Exercise Physiologists hold the knowledge and expertise to design safe and effective exercise programs tailored to individual needs and limitations. We consider factors such as:
Medical history and current health conditions (e.g. PCOS, endometriosis)
Pregnancy stage and any pregnancy-related complications
Post-partum recovery status (e.g., C-section vs. vaginal delivery)
Menopausal symptoms and bone density
Benefits of Working with an AEP:
Individualised Programs: We create exercise plans specific to your needs and goals, ensuring safety and effectiveness.
Progression Strategies: We guide you on safe and gradual progression to prevent injuries and optimise results.
Modification Techniques: We modify exercises to accommodate limitations and ensure proper form.
Education and Support: We provide education on exercise benefits, injury prevention, healthy movement patterns, and pain management.
Women’s Health conditions AEP’s can help treat:
· Dysmenorrhea (Period Pain)
· Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
· Endometriosis
· Pregnancy & post-partum recovery
· Gestational diabetes
· Post-partum depression
· Pelvic floor dysfunction such as pelvic organ prolapse, stress urinary incontinence
· Optimise fertility health
· Hysterectomy recovery
· Menopause
· Osteoporosis
As an Exercise Physiologist, I would conduct a thorough assessment before designing a specific and personalised exercise program, considering specific conditions, fitness level, goals and interests.
In the next blog, we'll delve deeper into Endometriosis and how exercise and education can help manage pain and flare ups. Stay tuned!
