If you are an estrogen deficientslow processor (see my previous blog entry to determine if you are http://www.drlark.com/blog/dr-lark/0/0/strong-nails-and-smooth-skin), I recommend keeping your hormones balanced with high-intensity activities such as power walking, cycling, running, triathlons, racquetball, tennis, and fast-paced styles of ballroom dance like the tango, foxtrot, and swing. Women with these hormone profiles tend to be instinctively drawn to strenuous types of exercise that are more contracting and acidifying to counter their natural tendency toward alkalinity. Ive seen women with these hormonal profiles maintain this level of intense physical activity well into their later years. In fact, it is not unusual to see slow processors participating in triathlons and bodybuilding well into their 70s and beyond!
Stretching and flexibility exercises are also important parts of your workout routine. Stretching keeps you limber and helps your muscles and tendons function well into your older years. The best stretching exercise is Pilates, as it tends to include more intense and faster-paced movements. In addition, yoga is beneficial for these womenparticularly the high-energy Bikram (hot), ashtanga, and power yoga.
Another benefit of these exercises? They help reduce menopause symptoms like menopause hot flashes and night sweats!