Low-impact exercise helps menopausal women tackle belly fat and look 'slimmer' within eight weeks

There is a common misconception that only strenuous exercises deliver the best results, but this is not the case.

One exercise deemed perfect for pre-menopausal and menopausal women due to its low-impact nature is Pilates.

Regular pilates practice helps increase flexibility and balance while enhancing muscle strength and tone.

Gemma Folkard, founder of Shape Pilates, explained: “As we get older, we tend to lose some of that flexibility, which can make us feel and look a bit stiff, which in itself is ageing.

“Pilates stretches and strengthens your muscles in such a balanced way that you can maintain or even improve your flexibility.

“This not only helps you move more gracefully but also keeps those joints happy and healthy.”

The expert went on: “From consistent training at any age, you will also see the results aesthetically - a more toned physique often gives people the confidence to push themselves out of their comfort range in regards to fashion and how they present themselves.

“Nothing screams old age like a hunched back and slumped shoulders. Pilates is big on aligning your spine and strengthening the muscles around it.

“Regular sessions can seriously improve your posture, making you look taller, slimmer and more confident."

According to the British Heart Foundation, Pilates is also helpful in shifting belly fat by engaging the muscles correctly.

This was the conclusion of a promising study conducted in 2017, which observed 37 overweight or obese women aged 30 to 50.

The research showed that practising Pilates for eight weeks was effective for weight loss and lowering body mass index.

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Researchers also noted improvements in toning around the waist and decreasing abdomen and hip circumference.

An earlier study, published in 2015, did not find improvements in body composition after 12 weeks of practising mat Pilates, but participants aged 59 to 66 did see an increase in abdominal, upper and lower limb strength.

Folkard noted: "Moving your body actually gives you more energy. Those who do Pilates often rave about having more pep in their step and feeling less fatigued.

"It's like tapping into a subtle energy reserve that helps you power through your day with the vitality of someone much younger."