Rediscovering Your Athletic Self in Menopause: 5 Ways to Feel and Stay Strong
I discovered tennis in my mid 40’s. Once my kids were older and I had a little more time, I picked up a racket and fell in love with the game. Tennis brought me back to my body, giving me not only physical fitness but also a wonderful community of friends and a much-needed break from screens and work. It’s also how I met Alexis, the co-founder of XO Jacqui.
Then menopause hit. Suddenly, the joy I found in movement was slipping away. My joints ached, I gained weight, and I was constantly tired and moody. As a lifelong student of wellness, I dove into research. I wanted to find a solution to feel strong and needed help to feel like myself again.
And I did! Here are the top 5 ways I’ve found to feel strong and vital during menopause:
Prioritize Protein: Did you know women in menopause need more protein? I found out the hard way. Using a protein calculator helped me determine the right amount, but I also learned that most protein powders weren’t designed for women like me. That’s why Alexis and I created a protein powder specifically for women in menopause—easy to digest, without the bloat.
Move Every Day: Tennis gave me a reason to get moving, but it’s important to find any activity you love. Whether it’s walking, swimming, or yoga, consistent movement keeps your body strong and your mind clear.
Stay Connected: The friendships I’ve built through tennis have been invaluable. Having a supportive community makes all the difference, especially when navigating the ups and downs of menopause.
Listen to Your Body: Menopause changes everything, from your energy levels to your digestion. Pay attention to what your body needs—rest when you’re tired, eat when you’re hungry, and don’t ignore signs that something isn’t right.
Simplify Nutrition: After years of experimenting, I realized my body couldn’t handle overly complex diets or massive protein shakes. The simpler, the better. Our XO Jacqui protein is designed with this in mind, giving you exactly what you need without the extras that weigh you down.
Giving these practices a try is worth it. It has helped me regain my strength, energy, and joy in movement and keep it. If you’re in the same boat, feeling disconnected from your body and your sport, know that it’s possible to get back to feeling like yourself again. It might just take a few adjustments, staying curious along the way but you’re worth it.
