Written by: Madison Rhode (Accredited Exercise Physiologist)
In honour of Women’s Health Week, it is crucial to highlight the distinct health challenges faced by women and explore how exercise can serve as a powerful tool in addressing these issues.
As an exercise physiologist, I am eager to share insights on how regular physical activity can make a significant impact on women’s health, from managing chronic conditions to enhancing overall wellbeing.
The Health Landscape for Australian Women
Current statistics reveal some pressing health concerns for women in Australia:
- Chronic Disease: 1 in 2 Australian women is living with a chronic disease.
- Cancer Risk: There is a 1 in 2 risk that an Australian woman will be diagnosed with cancer before her 85th birthday.
- Mental Health: Nearly half of Australian women have experienced a mental health problem.
- Delayed Childbearing: The average age of childbirth has risen to 30, with more women choosing to have children later in life.
- Disease Burden: Women experience a significant proportion of burden of disease in Australia, including:
• 59% for blood and metabolic disorders
• 58% for neurological conditions
• 55% for musculoskeletal conditions and injuries - Disease Impact: Cancer, musculoskeletal conditions, and cardiovascular disease account for 44% of the total disease burden for Australian women.
- Physical Inactivity: One in two Australian women are not getting enough exercise.
The Benefits of Regular Exercise
Incorporating regular exercise into your routine can address these health challenges effectively:
- Bone Health: Exercise increases bone mineral density, helping to prevent osteoporosis.
- Glycemic Control: For women with PCOS, gestational diabetes, and type 2 diabetes, physical activity aids in managing glycemic levels.
- Pain Management: Reducing oestrogen and inflammation through exercise can alleviate pain associated with endometriosis.
- Mental Wellbeing: Regular physical activity improves sleep quality and enhances mental health.
- Fertility: Exercise can improve ovarian function and increase sensitivity to fertility medications.
- Pregnancy: Engaging in regular exercise improves maternal and foetal outcomes during pregnancy.
- Menstrual Health: Exercise can improve menstrual regularity.
- Breast Cancer: Exercise can manage and reduce cancer related fatigue and side effects of treatment.
Exercise Recommendations
To reap these benefits, it is recommended that women aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise each week. Additionally, incorporating muscle-strengthening activities on at least two days a week is crucial.
Seek Professional Guidance
For personalised support and to create an exercise plan that meets your specific needs and interests, consider reaching out to an exercise physiologist. These professionals are experts in designing tailored exercise programs that can help you achieve your health goals and improve your quality of life.
This Women’s Health Week let’s commit to addressing the unique health challenges faced by women through the power of exercise. By integrating regular physical activity into your lifestyle, you can significantly improve your overall health and wellbeing.
Feel free to contact an exercise physiologist for further guidance and support on your journey to better health.