The Best Type Of Exercise To Relieve Menopause Symptoms

"Cardio seems to be especially helpful for thermal regulation1, body temperature, [and] it really helps mitigate hot flashes and night sweats," she notes. "[It] also seems to help for cognitive health2, cognitive performance, and brain fog." 

Strength training, on the other hand, has been shown to help activate cellular metabolism, preserve muscle mass and bone health, and improve mood3, she says. 

"Some women really experience anger and irritability, even rage, during menopause," she notes. "Strength training seems to be helping at least some women relieve some of their tension." So while cardio may be a popular choice for mood benefits, strength training is another worthy option.

Plus, building muscle mass is critical for women in menopause, partly to support metabolism.

We know that poor metabolic health is linked to a host of health concerns, one of which is worse menopausal symptoms4. So, by improving metabolic health, you may be able to ease some of those symptoms simultaneously.

On that note, it's important to remember that you don't have to subscribe to one exercise plan. In fact, combining workouts (getting a taste for cardio, strength training, and flexibility-focused movement) can help round out your physical and mental well-being, all while addressing a host of menopause symptoms in the process.

According to Mosconi, different types of exercise offer unique ways to manage menopause symptoms: Cardio regulates temperature, strength training boosts mood and muscle mass, and flexibility exercises promote relaxation and better sleep.

When it doubt, find a mix of all three categories, but at the end of the day, the best exercise is the one you'll do on a regular basis.