“Exercise has been transformational,” Charlotte shares. “It’s helped me control my weight, build strength, increase my fitness and resilience, ease joint pain, and flood my body with natural endorphins that improve my mood and focus.”
Charlotte embraced both cardio and strength training to take charge of her wellbeing. “I do lots of cardio - combat, spin, and gym workouts - to improve my fitness and cardiovascular health, which has changed dramatically,” she explains. “Strength training, whether in pump classes or gym sessions, has been essential for easing joint pain and building overall body strength. Beyond the physical benefits, exercising in a social space with like-minded people has been a huge boost for my mood and motivation.”
Being a club member has been more than access to equipment or classes - it’s given her purpose, routine, and a sense of belonging. “It’s given me focus and commitment, but also the chance to laugh with my gym buddies and feel part of a community,” she says. “No matter how I feel before I train, I always know I’ll feel even better afterwards.”
Over time, Charlotte has adapted her routine to focus more on strength, joint care, and mobility. Her advice for others just starting their menopause journey? “Lean into it and make the most of every aspect of the club. Train in a way that suits your body, explore holistic classes, move regularly, and talk to other members. Use the club as a social space - I’ve made great friends by being open to conversation, and now have a really important support network.”
For Charlotte, these connections have been life-changing, especially during tough times. “My wellbeing, mentally and physically, is in a completely different place now,” she reflects. “I work full time but always make time to train five times a week. When I recently went through significant medical treatment for lymphoma, I’m sure the resilience I built through training helped tremendously with my recovery.”
Today, Charlotte feels deeply rooted in the club’s community. “I’ve got a fantastic support network of gym friends,” she says. “And I know I can always talk openly with the wellbeing team, instructors, or PTs - or just share a laugh and a chat.”
Charlotte’s story is a testament to how focusing on fitness and community can help women not just navigate this new stage of life, but thrive.