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Gemma Perry

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March 24, 2025

Why Strength Training is a Game-Changer for Perimenopausal Women

If you’re a woman in your 30s, 40s, or beyond, you’ve probably noticed your body changing in ways you didn’t expect. Weight gain around the middle, fatigue, and that feeling that no matter what you try, the scale won’t budge. Sound familiar? These changes are often tied to shifting hormones during perimenopause and menopause. But here’s the good news: strength training can help you regain control, boost your energy, and support long-term health.

Why muscle matters more than ever

As we age, our bodies naturally lose muscle mass—a process called sarcopenia. Less muscle doesn’t just mean weaker arms; it means a slower metabolism, less energy, and a higher risk of injuries. When your muscle mass decreases, it becomes easier to gain fat and harder to lose it.

Strength training works to reverse this by building lean muscle, which:

  • Boosts metabolism: Muscle burns more calories at rest than fat, helping you manage your weight more easily.
  • Supports balance and strength: This reduces the risk of falls and injuries as you age.
  • Protects your bones: Lifting weights improves bone density, lowering your risk of osteoporosis.
  • Improves hormone health: Strength training can help balance key hormones like insulin and cortisol, which can be especially helpful during perimenopause.

But won’t I get bulky?

This is a common concern, but rest assured: women don’t naturally build large, bulky muscles due to lower testosterone levels. What you’ll gain is a toned, lean look, along with strength, confidence, and improved health.

Strength training and weight loss

If weight loss has been a struggle, strength training can make all the difference. Muscle doesn’t just make you look stronger; it helps your body work more efficiently. After a strength session, your body continues to burn calories for hours as it repairs and rebuilds your muscles—a process known as EPOC (excess post-exercise oxygen consumption).

Unlike endless cardio, which can leave you feeling drained, strength training boosts your energy and helps you feel more capable in your daily life.

The takeaway

Your body is changing, but you have more power than you think to take control of how you feel. Strength training isn’t just about looking good; it’s about building a foundation of health, strength, and vitality that carries you through every stage of life.

So, why not start now? Your future self will thank you.

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