Many fitness enthusiasts are often advised to steer clear of high-impact activities, deeming them too risky without understanding the nuanced benefits.

“Life is risky; we do things in controlled environments to make life less risky.”

These words encapsulate a fundamental shift in how we should approach fitness. Engaging in controlled exercises, such as jumping or squatting, in a safe environment allows us to better handle similar movements in daily life.

For Leslie, an experienced athlete with a history of back issues, the transition to embracing power movements—such as jumping—was revolutionary.

"I’ve been prioritizing jumping for the past six months, and today, I jumped off a bus with my daughter, which I never could have imagined a year ago."

“The less you do, the less you can do. And the more you do, the more you can do.”

Cardio, often seen as the default exercise, especially for women, requires revisiting myths and understanding deeper benefits beyond surface-level practices. Combining this with other movements enriches overall fitness experience.

For decades, the blanket recommendation for women has leaned toward extended cardio sessions, Pilates, and yoga. But should there be more conscious diversification in routines?

“Do you like yoga?” was asked skeptically. For many at their fitness crossroads, incorporating various exercise styles, including resistance and high-intensity training, it’s more than just a key to muscle mass; it combats inflammation and insulin resistance associated with menopause.

Among the ongoing dialogue, the relevance of High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) continues to emerge, especially for women post-menopause who seek ways to counteract aging’s pulls without overstraining.

• Control risks to build strength effectively.
• Integrate power movements cautiously.
• Balance cardio with varying exercise types.
• Adapt regimens for menopause considerations.