Menopause is when there is a complete or near complete ovarian follicular depletion of a female's ovaries. This occurs at a median age of 51.4 and the months/years leading up to it is called peri-menopause.

It is considered the case when a woman has not had a period for 12 months which results in a reduction of sex hormones that include oestrogen, progesterone and testosterone. These hormones preserve muscle mass, maintain tissue elasticity (including the vaginal tissues which cause our lining of the uterus to thicken during a menstrual cycle), maintain vaginal blood flow and lubrication which contributes to our sex drive.

Common issues for middle aged women include shoulder/ tendon issues, plantar fasciitis, back pain, , hip pain (eg gluteal tendinopathy), cervicogenic headaches/TMJ and a reduction in bone density.

Research shows evidence for specific exercise strategies for women with gluteal tendinopathies, building strength and balance around the hips in addition to addressing nutrition, lifestyle modifications, mental hacks, exercise is essential for menopausal women.