We are so delighted to tell you that our latest research titled ‘A pilot 6-Week Lifestyle Intervention in Women Aged 50+ in Ireland’ is now published in the Physical Activity and Health journal!

We know that effects of ageing and inactivity are compounded by the menopause which typically occurs in females aged 50+. The menopause is associated with unfavourable changes in body composition including decreased muscle, bone density and increased fat tissue. Our study aimed to determine the effects of a 6-week community-based intervention on nutrition knowledge and physical, metabolic, and cardiovascular health of women aged 50+ years.

What did our research show?

Our 6-week intervention successfully improved body weight, BMI, body fat percent, waist circumference, fasting glucose, general nutrition knowledge, cardiovascular fitness, and lower body strength of participants. Metabolic health improved with a trend towards improved cardiovascular health.

This indicates that women aged 50+ responded positively to a women-only community-based lifestyle education and physical activity intervention. Community-based lifestyle interventions for females aged 50+ years should at least incorporate a combination of aerobic and resistance exercise in addition to nutrition and health education workshops to improve cardiometabolic health.

Thank you to Laois Sports Partnership, and Sport Ireland for funding this 6-week intervention for women aged 50+ in Laois, Ireland.