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Resistance exercise acts as a hormonal regulator during pre-menopause and menopause

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Photo: Mulher fazendo pilates - BearFotos/shutterstock.com

Bodybuilding and other strength training emerge as important allies for women facing pre-menopause and menopause. Essas phases bring hormonal changes that affect metabolism, body composition and general well-being. Práticas regularly weights help modulate the body’s responses and mitigate some common period effects.

Pesquisas and reports from experts reinforce the role of resistance exercise at this stage of life. Intense muscular stimulation promotes adaptations that go beyond aesthetics and act directly on physiological processes altered by the drop in estrogen.

Mudanças hormones mark transition phase

Premenopause and menopause involve fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone levels. Essas variations influence mood, sleep, memory and ability to burn calories. The body goes through a reorganization that can reduce the production of growth hormone, known as GH, and affect the maintenance of lean mass.

Médica and researcher Fabiana Berta highlight that higher intensity exercise works as a physiological regulator. Ele requires constant responses from the organism, which helps to balance internal adaptations. Contrações Strong and varied muscle triggers mechanisms that help stabilize the hormonal environment.

GH release increases with adequate training. Esse hormone supports cell regeneration, muscle gain and fat reduction. With advancing age, its natural production drops, but physical stimulation can activate pathways that preserve energy and body composition. Níveis controlled testosterone also receives support, favoring strength and disposition.

Ganho muscle protects bones and metabolism

Regular weight training combats the natural loss of muscle mass that occurs with age and intensifies during menopause. Esse process, called sarcopenia, reduces basal metabolism and increases the risk of weight gain, especially abdominal weight. Resisted Treinos reverses part of this tendency by promoting protein synthesis.

  • Preservação of lean mass during weight loss
  • Estímulo to bone mineral density
  • Redução of the risk of osteoporosis and fractures
  • Melhora in the regulation of glycemia and lipid profile
  • Suporte to cardiovascular health

Endocrinologist André Camara, director of Sociedade Brasileira of Endocrinologia and Metabologia Regional São Paulo, recommends combining weight training with moderate aerobic activities. Essa double acts to reduce body fat, increase muscle mass and maintain bones. Três weekly sessions already produce noticeable effects on cardiovascular risk and mineral density.

Além Furthermore, training activates the mTOR protein, linked to muscle building after micro-injuries caused by exertion. The EPOC effect, or excess post-exercise oxygen consumption, keeps your metabolism elevated for hours after your session.

Medicamentos to lose weight requires extra care

The increasing use of injectable medications for weight control brings a new layer to the picture. Eles accelerate fat loss, but can reduce muscle mass if not accompanied by strength training. Sem resisted stimulus, body composition worsens and metabolism suffers.

Fabiana Berta warns that these treatments do not preserve muscle by themselves. Physical activity becomes essential to balance the process and prevent loss of strength and bone density. Mulheres who opt for this medical approach should prioritize guided bodybuilding.

Benefícios goes beyond the physical

Regular practice also influences mental aspects. Redução of symptoms of anxiety and depression appears in clinical reports and observations. Exercise releases endorphins and improves sleep quality, elements often affected by hormonal instability.

Maria of Fátima Taffo, 71, reports practical gains. Ela combines weight training, zumba and body balance with dietary discipline. The elderly woman claims to feel less joint pain, good flexibility and restful sleep. Para her, the muscles gained during training explain much of her current mobility.

Coach Daniel Silva, from Smart Fit, observes menopausal students and reinforces the importance of monitoring intensity. Exercícios such as squats, hip extensions and shoulder presses strengthen structures around the joints and relieve discomfort.

Professional Orientação ensures security

Especialistas insist on medical evaluation before starting any routine. Contraindicações need to be identified, and the program must be adapted by a qualified physical educator. Gradual Progressão prevents injuries and maintains adhesion.

Multidisciplinary monitoring includes a nutritionist and, when necessary, an endocrinologist. Individualization considers age, health history and specific goals.

Mulheres who practice bodybuilding during the hormonal transition report greater autonomy and control over their body. The phase does not need to be seen just as a loss. With adequate stimulation, it is possible to maintain functionality, strength and quality of life.

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