I’ve read a lot about perimenopause and menopause. And weight gain, even rapid weight gain!, is always a part of the discussion. So, I’ve wondered if this weight gain is mostly the result of the hormonal changes as seems to be represented in the articles (as well as is represented in most of the comments to these articles which seems to indicate that half these women wake up one day with excess fat in their abdomens),
In other words, would someone who is muscular and fit suddenly become fat as a result of “the change”? I believe the members of the broader population generally have lifestyle (diet and exercise) issues, so I wonder if this isn’t really what’s being represented by the data/comments and perhaps they say “menopause”. Any thoughts? I’m sure genetics play a role too.
It’s an increase in calorie intake, which is affected by hormones in some manner. That said, it’s pretty complicated and it is unlikely that someone who is muscular and fit becomes fat. I haven’t seen that happen.
I’m 56 and still not completely done having periods (Grrr!), but my experience so far has been that heavy periods with cramps and great loss of iron is more debilitating workout-wise than going without. On the months when I don’t bleed, I feel like a champ.
I’ve been running consistently for 9 years (10 or 12 miles week average) and strength training for the last 5. I began with Starting Strength, then switched to swimming and bodyweight fitness (handstands, yay!) and now I’m back to Starting Strength with a side of pulling exercises like pullups and chinups, plus dips. (I love dips for what they do to my pecks!)
When I started I was a runner with noodle arms and no back, and now I have some serious mass and strength. I’ve gained about 8 lbs in the process, from 128 to 136lb at 5’3", and I look younger. When I get a weird anxiety/gloomy menopausal mood, a workout will make it go away, either a weight session or a long run. As far as building that muscle, I went from 3 days per week at the start, down to 2, and now, to one day of pulling and one of pushing exercises. I do notice I need a lot more rest than a young person would, but I do build muscle consistently. I also err on the side of caution to avoid injury. I totally absolutely recommend this!