We know it can be frustrating to feel like you’re putting in the work and not seeing progress. In fact, most of the peri women we work with ARE DOING SO MUCH right. You’re focusing on eating ‘clean’, working out regularly, and going to bed, but still feel stuck. There are some major transitions happening in your body which might mean that what used to ‘work’ before is not what will help you see progress now.
Here are 5 reasons we often see clients not making progress in perimenopause:
You’re nibbling too often in the day and not taking the time to sit down for real meals. We know you think this one doesn’t matter, or that it’s impossible to find time to eat in your day, but it might be the MOST important one to focus on first.
You’re drinking too often or too much alcohol. We know, this is our least favorite too. And we’re not saying you have to give up alcohol altogether but it might be time to reconsider that witching hour glass of wine and limit alcohol consumption to the weekends as a start.
You’re not dealing with underlying gut or hormone concerns. Sometimes the best intentions might not be enough if you are not supporting hormone and gut changes that are going on in this phase of life.
You’re trying to do it alone! Let’s face it, no plan is going to work on willpower alone anymore. An effective peri plan should be focused on building habits and finding the tools that help you make sustainable changes - and finding someone that can help support you in this process can be huge.
You’re overdoing the cardio and not focusing on weight training in a way that actually helps you build muscle. After age 35, we naturally start to lose muscle which is a HUGE driver of negative health outcomes. And often, focusing on more cardio is just adding to your stress load and breaking down muscle. Finding a workout routine that prioritizes pushing muscles to fatigue and in a way that doesn’t overwhelm your nervous system is key.