top of page

Why Women in Midlife should be Lacing up their Sneakers

Writer's picture: Lisa HammerLisa Hammer

I started running in my late thirties, shortly after my divorce. I was inspired by my co-worker at the time who was several years older then I was and she regularly ran half marathons. I was in awe as I couldn't even run around the block without getting winded. I asked her how she did it and she simply said, just start by lacing up your sneakers and putting one foot in front of the other and before you know it you are increasing your distance. And she was right, before I knew it I was hooked and was running my first 5K with many to follow. Last year, at the age of 55 I ran my first 10K.



I didn't realize my running journey, that started nearly twenty years ago, as a way to distract myself from my divorce and help me navigate a new normal, would provide me with such a solid foundation, as I again navigate a new normal as a woman in Midlife.


I truly never realized all the benefits of running, I just knew it was an easy thing to start because I didn't need any gym membership and/or equipment. I just needed a desire to move my body and a good pair of sneakers. However, as I move into the next phase of my life, I am discovering the major benefits of this simple activity. And in case you are interested, here are just a few:


1. Improves Heart Health

Running can help improve heart health by strengthening the heart muscle and reducing the risk of heart disease. Women in midlife are at a higher risk of developing heart disease, and running can be an excellent way to reduce that risk.


2. Enhances Bone Health

Running is a weight-bearing exercise that can help improve bone density, which is crucial for women in midlife. As women age, their bone density decreases, which can lead to osteoporosis and fractures. Running can help reduce the risk of these conditions and keep bones strong and healthy.


3. Boosts Mood and Reduces Stress

Running can be an excellent way to boost mood and reduce stress levels in women in midlife. The physical activity can release endorphins, which are feel-good hormones that can help improve mood and reduce stress levels.


4. Increases Energy Levels

Running can help increase energy levels and reduce fatigue in women in midlife. Regular running can help improve cardiovascular fitness, which can make daily activities feel less tiring.


5. Promotes Weight Loss and Weight Management

Running is an excellent way to burn calories and promote weight loss and weight management. For women in midlife, losing weight can be challenging due to hormonal changes. Running can help burn calories and maintain a healthy weight.


6. Improves Sleep

Running can help improve sleep quality in women in midlife. Regular exercise can help regulate the sleep-wake cycle and improve sleep quality, which is essential for overall health and well-being.


If you have been on the fence about starting a workout routine in this phase of your life, hopefully my story and these few benefits outlined here will encourage you to lace up your sneakers. And don't worry about what people might think the first time you hit the road or the trail, just remember you are doing something that most people are unwilling to do!!


If you enjoyed this article and feel someone else may benefit from the content please feel free to share!




22 views0 comments

Recent Posts

See All

Comments


©2022 by Scaling the Hill. Proudly created with Wix.com

bottom of page