Medicus, Vol. 33 No. 2 Zdravlje žene, 2024.
Review article
Physical Activity and Women’s Health
Marija Rakovac
Abstract
Regular physical activity significantly decreases the risk of premature death and plays an important role in the prevention and treatment of a number of chronic diseases. In terms of women’s health, physical activity is important at any age. In childhood and adolescence, it is a prerequisite for adequate growth and development, development of bone tissue and attainment of an adequate peak bone mass, and for the regulation of cardiometabolic risk factors. At the same time, it is important to ensure proper nutrition and sufficient energy intake. Furthermore, regular physical activity during pregnancy prevents excessive gestational weight gain, hypertensive disorders and gestational diabetes and ensures optimal fetal development. Physical activity in peri- and postmenopausal periods helps preserve physical fitness, bone quality, has a positive impact on mental health and quality of life. Both aerobic activities and resistance training play a role at all levels of prevention of cardiovascular diseases in women, and have a significant impact in the prevention of different malignant diseases, such as breast, colon and endometrial cancer. Finally, biological seks characteristics are also reflected in different aspects of adaptation to exercise.
Keywords
exercise; growth and development; pregnancy; postmenopausal period; chronic diseases
Hrčak ID:
328478
URI
Publication date:
27.2.2025.
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