Let’s Celebrate Women’s History Month By Getting Stronger

By Joy Stephenson-Laws, JD, Founder

March is Women’s History Month. This celebration of powerful and resilient females always makes me think of Ruth Bader Ginsburg. In addition to being a trailblazer for women’s rights and a major force on the Supreme Court, RGB was also a beast in the gym despite being in her 80s and surviving cancer two times. Check out this video of her throwing a medicine ball. Pancreatic cancer took her life at the age of 87, but she was such an inspiration in so many ways. And it all just goes to show us that we are never too old to be strong.

Contrary to popular belief, we can actually improve our physical fitness as we age. And if you are a woman, you can do this despite the hurdles of menopause and fighting against midlife weight gain.

Now allow me to deliver more inspiration or perhaps I should say fitspo. Recently, I came across an article about a 103-year-old woman who goes to the gym three to four times a week! Teresa Moore of Camarillo, California says that the gym is her “happy place.”

#fitspo

If I’m being honest, the gym is not my happy place. I much rather get my physical activity in through golf or hiking, but I understand how important it is to regularly strength train in order to maintain strong bones and delay sarcopenia (age-related muscle loss). This is why I force myself to workout with a trainer who makes sure I am doing full body exercises.

What’s even better about the story of Teresa Moore is that she likes going to the gym with jewelry on as well as a full face of makeup. In an ageist society (especially towards women), she is most definitely fighting back with strength and being her most authentic self.

"Try to be happy," Teresa said, according to the article from FOX news. "Try to think of good things – to think everything is beautiful, to think beautiful things."

I couldn't agree more!

Here are some reasons why it is particularly important for women to maintain active lifestyles:

Depression. Women are almost twice as likely to be diagnosed with depression than men. Studies have shown that exercise can significantly improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression. Women are also more likely to suffer from anxiety, which can also be better managed through exercise.
Osteoporosis. Due to hormonal changes that occur during menopause, women are more prone to osteoporosis (porous bones). As mentioned, strength training can help maintain healthy, strong bones.
Dementia. Because women tend to live longer than men and Alzhiemer’s mainly occurs in people 65 and older, Alzhiemer’s is almost twice as common in women, according to Harvard Medical School. Studies have shown that exercise can reduce the risk of developing dementia by more than 30 percent.

When it comes to exercise, it’s always good to incorporate those activities you enjoy, but also make sure you are strength training and getting in some cardio for heart health.

Fueling your body is key.

In order to perform workouts well and be able to recover afterwards, fuel your body properly. Check out this pH Labs blog to read the details on how to give your body what it needs.

It is also extremely important to undergo regular comprehensive nutrient testing in order to identify any nutrient imbalances or deficiencies. If a deficiency or imbalances is discovered, a competent healthcare professional can work with you regarding making the necessary dietary changes and recommend quality supplements if need be.

Please be sure to also check out these invaluable blogs on women’s health:

Happy Women’s History Month. Enjoy your healthy life!

Disclaimer: This article is not intended to provide medical advice. Please consult with your doctor or another competent healthcare practitioner to get specific medical advice for your situation.

The pH professional health care team includes recognized experts from a variety of health care and related disciplines, including physicians, attorneys, nutritionists, nurses, and certified fitness instructors. This team also includes the members of the pH Medical Advisory Board, which constantly monitors all pH programs, products, and services. To learn more about the pH Medical Advisory Board, click here.