Impact of Concurrent Training on Physical and Psychological Health in Women Experiencing Menopause
The aim of this study is to examine the impact of a concurrent training exercise intervention on menopausal symptoms and key physical and mental health outcomes. The proposed study is powered based on a primary outcome of examining the change in menopausal symptoms using the MenQoL questionnaire. Participants (n=70) will be randomised to an intervention or control group. The intervention group will participate in a 12 week online (via zoom) concurrent training programme, consisting of three forty-five minute sessions (on non-consecutive days) per week that align with WHO exercise recommendations for adults and the control group will maintain their regular activity. The exercise classes will be delivered by qualified Sport \& Exercise Scientists and will consist of a combination of bodyweight and resistance band exercises. Each class will consist of a 5 minute warm up, 15 minutes of aerobic exercise, 20 minutes of resistance training, and a 5 minute cool-down. Both groups will engage in pre and post testing through questionnaires (GAD-7, Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), Menopause-Specific Quality of Life Questionnaire (MENQOL), Body Appreciation (BAS-2)), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index Sleep, International physical activity questionnaire (IPAQ), Body image questionnaire (BAS-2) and physical tests (Bod pod, grip-strength, 3-RM leg press, 3-RM cable pull, counter-movement jump and Astrand Rhyming submaximal aerobic test).
• Women experiencing perimenopause (irregular menstrual cycles of ≥7-day difference in cycle length of consecutive menstrual cycles) and early postmenopause (\< 5 years post menopause).
• Able to safely engage in a concurrent training interventions that combine both aerobic and resistance training.
• Must have reliable internet access and a device capable of participating in online training on zoom.
• Willingness and ability to provide informed consent and comply with study procedures.
• Aged between 40 and 60 years