Inspiring Women to be Active During Midlife and Menopause

Themes
Under Represented Groups*
Sub Themes
Females, Lower socio-economic groups
Geographic Area
National
Lifestages
Adults
This report builds on previous research, Menopause, Me and Physical Activity, published in 2018, and looks to uncover the barriers that women experience to being physically active throughout midlife and menopause and considers how to re-engage women and re-introduce physical activity to them.

Although all women are affected, we know that those in lower socioeconomic groups are even less likely to be active:

  • Only 50% of women in this group are meeting guidelines for activity, compared to 72% of women in the highest groups.
  • We also know that women in lower socioeconomic groups face additional barriers associated with low income and environment, so this is where the research is focused.

An innovative five stage, iterative approach was employed over five months to fully understand midlife women's experiences of menopause and physical activity. This enabled Women In Sport to build high levels of trust with the women who took part in the research and explore what is really preventing them from being active. Time period: July-November 2020

The focus was specifically on women in lower socioeconomic groups because we know they face additional barriers and are less likely to be active;

  • Women aged 45-55 who were experiencing a range of menopausal symptoms.
  • All women were inactive.
  • Mix of White British, Asian, and Black British, African and Caribbean backgrounds.
  • All women in lower socioeconomic groups (C2DE).
  • From Birmingham, Manchester, London and Middlesbrough

The report highlights some key themes which affect women's lives during midlife, including;

  • Physical aspects - Health concerns, weight gain, exhaustion etc..
  • Psychological aspects - Priorities, mood swings/anxiety, embarrassment etc..
  • Social aspects - Demanding roles, menopause being isolating, connection etc...

Sport and exercise can play a pivotal role in alleviating some of the negative aspects of midlife and menopause, enabling women to feel more in control of their health, and enhancing wellbeing and happiness well into later life.

The report then goes on to discuss the different barriers which are stopping women in this life stage from getting more involved in physical activity and the opportunity and motivation they may have for sport overall.

The report ends with 5 principles, which are aimed primarily at inactive women and those who have fallen out of exercise, but can apply to active women as well:

  1. Endless Possibilities
  2. Judgement-Free Zone
  3. Support Network
  4. Expand the Image of what Sporty Means
  5. Make it Relevant

By applying these five principles, we can offer positive opportunities for women in midlife to be more active.