Did you know women are NOT just “small men”? Shocking, right? But here's the deal—most medical research historically focused on men, leaving women’s unique needs out of the picture. That all changed with the groundbreaking book ROAR by Dr. Stacy Sims and Selene Yeager. They’ve made it their mission to break down the science of women’s physiology and how our hormones—especially estrogen and progesterone—impact everything from fitness to mental health.
Here’s the gist: Women's bodies are entirely different—especially when it comes to exercise, metabolism, and how we respond to training. Forget following fitness plans designed for men; they won’t work the same for you. Whether you're cycling, running, or strength training, you’ve got to understand your hormonal rhythms to perform your best and avoid burnout. This applies even more during perimenopause and menopause when your body is going through some wild changes.
Key Takeaways from Céline’s Talk:
- Hormones Matter: Estrogen isn't just a 'female hormone'—it's anabolic, meaning it helps build muscle. When your estrogen levels drop (hello, menopause!), muscle mass and strength can decrease quickly. This makes resistance training super important. Ladies, don’t be afraid to lift heavy. It’s not about getting “bulky”; it’s about staying STRONG.
- Mental Game Shift: Hormonal changes also impact your mood, anxiety, and motivation levels. Ever wonder why that mountain bike trail you used to dominate suddenly feels terrifying? That's hormones playing tricks on your brain! Understanding this can be empowering—you’re not losing your edge, just going through a transition. And you CAN take steps to work through it.
- Vaginal Health Is Non-Negotiable: Vaginal dryness and discomfort are common but rarely talked about. Ladies, this is just as important as muscle and mental health. Don’t suffer in silence. There are solutions, and the more we talk about it, the less stigma there will be. Let’s normalize these conversations!
- You Deserve Health Advocates: The biggest takeaway? Advocate for yourself. If your doctor isn’t listening or dismisses your concerns as “just aging,” WALK OUT. You are your best health advocate, and you deserve someone who listens and understands women's health at every stage of life.
✨ How to Take Action NOW:
- Lift Heavy: Incorporate strength training into your routine 2-3 times a week. Focus on heavier weights with fewer reps to build strength and protect your bones.
- Track Your Cycle: If you’re still menstruating, track how you feel during different phases of your cycle and adapt your workout intensity accordingly.
- Talk About Vaginal Health: Don’t shy away from discussing issues like dryness or discomfort with your healthcare provider or close friends. It’s part of overall wellness!
- Find the Right Doctor: If you feel dismissed, find a provider who specializes in women’s health and understands how hormones impact everything from fitness to mental health.
You’re worth the effort, and your health journey is unique to YOU. Ready to hit that next level of performance? Let’s go!
