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Published on: March 7, 2019
Physical Activity Level and Self-Esteem in Middle-Aged Women
Magdalena Dąbrowska-Galas1, Jolanta Dąbrowska2
1Department of Kinesitherapy and Special Methods, School of Health Sciences in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, 40-752 Katowice, Poland.
Physical activity positively impacts self-esteem in middle-aged women. Engaging in regular physical activity (PA) is linked to higher self-esteem, crucial for navigating menopause.
Area of Science:
- Menopause research
- Psychology
- Public health
Background:
- Physical activity (PA) may mitigate negative menopause symptoms and improve mental health, including self-esteem.
- Lower self-esteem in menopausal women increases risks and stress during this life stage.
- Understanding the PA-self-esteem link is vital for women's well-being during menopause.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between physical activity levels and self-esteem in middle-aged women.
- To assess how physical activity influences psychological well-being during the menopausal transition.
Main Methods:
- 111 Polish women aged 45-60 participated.
- Utilized Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, International Physical Activity Questionnaire, Menopause Rating Scale, and Beck Depression Inventory.
- Correlational analysis to determine the association between PA and self-esteem.
Main Results:
- Higher overall physical activity levels were significantly associated with better self-esteem (p = 0.001).
- The most frequent severe symptoms reported were sexual problems, irritability, and joint/muscular discomfort.
- The average age of participants was 51.7 ± 4.7 years.
Conclusions:
- Physical activity levels are demonstrably linked to self-esteem in middle-aged women.
- A majority of the studied women reported high levels of physical activity.
- Integrating PA into daily life can enhance self-esteem and mental health for menopausal women.
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