Why Variety in Movement Matters

With International Women’s Day on the 8th of March, it is a good to focus on women’s health, and to reflect on how women move and what actually supports the body over the long term. Many of us stick to one type of exercise for years, whether that is walking, classes, running or gym workouts. Which for a long time can work for us, but especially as we come into midlife the body benefits most when different styles of movement are combined.

As we move through different life stages, particularly through perimenopause and menopause, the body’s needs can change. Muscle mass naturally declines, joints can feel stiffer, and recovery may take a little longer. What we have done in the past  may no longer feel as good or work as well as it once did.

Strength training is vital as we age, it really should be a non negotiable in our 40s, 50s , 60s and beyond. It helps maintain muscle, supports bone health, and improves how the body copes with everyday demands. It also plays a role in supporting metabolism and overall resilience.

Slower forms of movement, such as yoga and pilates  improve mobility, balance and body awareness, while also helping the nervous system settle. This is often something we really find of benefit adding in to our routines, as the hormones in our bodies are all over the place, finding the time to be still, to relax and to gently move is often what our bodies crave the most. Walking is also a key factor , supports circulation, heart health and mental wellbeing. Getting those steps in everyday can be like the glue that binds everything together .

The key is not doing everything all the time, but finding a balance that works. Especially during times of hormonal change, variety in movement can make exercise feel more supportive and sustainable. Rather than pushing harder, mixing how we move can help us feel stronger, more capable, and more at ease in our bodies as we move through life.

Learning to listen to our bodies and to adapt our training is vital.