Hear from our Move through Menopause Community
It’s a much-loved course of ours!
We know that menopause is a journey that’s far from one-size-fits-all. Each person’s experience is different; some may have a few menopause symptoms, while for others it can be a debilitating time of life.
That’s why we created Move through Menopause, a 12-week course endorsed by and proudly developed with our partners, Menopause Movement. The course is designed to provide participants with the knowledge to aid perimenopause and menopause symptoms, helping them feel more in control and confident.
Following its success in participating centres and the feedback of our members, we began to roll the course out to more of our centres across the UK earlier this year, to provide even more People with a better, evidence-based understanding of menopause!
One of those centres was Concordia Leisure Centre in Northumberland. In a safe, welcoming environment, the weekly Move through Menopause sessions allow participants to try out different types of physical activity (from group workout classes, to gym-based activities, and sport) while having the chance to chat about symptom management, hormones, and nutrition.
For some participants, such as Maxine, the social aspect of the course has been particularly empowering.
“The Move Through Menopause group has afforded me the opportunity to assess my own transition through this confusing and difficult process, within the company of a supportive and caring leaders and a kinship of women which the course has brought together.”
“This group of women, in the same stage of life, but with completely different experiences and outlooks prove that we are not 'done' but just taking a well-earned breath before becoming our best selves, armed with knowledge and confidence...and thanks to new fitness habits, more years to dance and laugh!” Maxine says.
The leaders that Maxine speaks fondly of are two of our Healthy Communities Coordinators, Brenda and Lisa. [JA1] The dynamic duo sees how the course benefits members of the local Community and how it keeps People coming back - week in, week out.
“For some people, they can sail through menopause, but for others, it can be debilitating. Having more knowledge gives participants more of a voice to speak up about what they’re going through, instead of feeling isolated.” Brenda says. Knowledge really is power!
Physical activity can work wonders for lifting mood, boosting sleep, and building muscle mass – all of which can be affected through perimenopause and menopause.
The exercise side of the course is something that Sarah, another participant at Concordia Leisure Centre, was excited to get stuck into!
“The exercise element has been a lot of fun, and isn't too strenuous, so for people looking to join don't worry about this! For me, this was something I was most looking forward to, the chance to try different activities in a closed environment.”
“We also have a WhatsApp group, so we can see who fancies trying a new class. Already I am determined to carry on with the exercise that this course has helped me develop a good routine with.” Sarah continues, proving that for many participants, the routines that the course has helped them create can be maintained long after the course has ended!
Education is another vital part of the course. Knowing how to support our minds and bodies is one thing, but having extra knowledge on what’s happening and why during menopause is another essential piece of the puzzle. The knowledge that participants have gained has informed their diet, their exercise routines, and even discussions they have with their GP.
For one participant, Karen, the knowledge has totally brought her out of her comfort zone. “I feel I have learnt so much. The theory side has been so helpful, I’ve learnt a lot and tried new things. The course has got my mind, body, and spirit back on track.”
Away from the gym, it’s supported People professionally too! Since completing the Move through Menopause course, participant Donna is now a point of contact on the topic at her company and enjoys passing on her new-found knowledge to help others.
“I have my own page on the intranet where I promote menopause and there’s colleague and manager facts for people to download.” she says.
So far, we’ve supported hundreds of People navigate menopause with greater confidence, and we can’t wait to help even more!
Want to learn more about our Move through Menopause programme and join a Community of like-minded People?
We’re so proud to work with many of our partners, like Menopause Movement, to explore and develop more targeted pathways which support our Customers.
Within our 90+ centres, our commitment to connect with and support our Communities keeps on growing. We’re not just here to inspire People to become fitter, our centres are hubs where Communities can stay active, build friendships, and make lasting memories!
If you found this blog helpful, you can view our full list of blogs here.
Sources: Menopause, me and physical activity (Women in Sport)
As always, it’s important to take things slow and seek advice when increasing your exercise levels and making changes to your lifestyle. If you feel like you need more support to manage your symptoms, we recommend talking to a GP/health professional.