Send us Fan Mail Menopause changes the body—but it doesn’t mean women have to surrender their strength, energy, or quality of life. In Episode 71 of Chatting with Slava the Jordanian, Dr. Slava welcomes back health and fitness expert Michael Wilkke, owner of Aspire Health and Fitness, for a practical conversation about what happens to a woman’s body during perimenopause, menopause, and post-menopause—and why the fitness strategies that worked years ago may no longer deliver the same results. Michael breaks down the impact of declining estrogen on muscle mass, bone density, metabolism, sleep, and abdominal fat. He explains why walking, yoga, and Pilates can be valuable parts of a healthy lifestyle, but why progressive resistance training becomes increasingly important as women age. They also tackle one of the biggest fears surrounding strength training: “Will lifting heavy weights make me bulky?” The conversation goes deeper into restrictive dieting, excessive cardio, protein, hydration, stress, sleep, changing food tolerances, supplements, and the importance of measuring progress by more than the number on the scale. Dr. Slava and Michael also discuss GLP-1 medications such as Ozempic, including their role in blood-sugar management and the importance of protecting muscle through appropriate nutrition and resistance training when weight loss occurs. If you’re navigating your 40s, 50s, menopause, or life beyond it, this episode is about understanding your changing body and building sustainable habits that support strength, mobility, energy, and long-term health. Disclaimer: This episode is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult an appropriate healthcare professional regarding medications, symptoms, nutrition, exercise, or changes to your health plan. Support the show Stay Connected and Join the Conversation! We want to hear from you! Connect with Dr. Slava Al-Nabulsi and be part of the Chatting with Slava the Jordanian community: 📸 Follow Slava: @slava_como for personal insights, stories, and inspiration. 💼 Support Empowerment: @jordanian.women.entrepreneurs – celebrating and uplifting ambitious women. 🦷 Smile with Us: @greenwooddentalpartners – bringing bright smiles to every face. 👉 Engage with us by: 💬 Sharing your thoughts on the episode in the comments or DMs. 📲 Tagging us in your posts and stories. 🔗 Sharing the podcast with your friends and family. Let’s grow, inspire, and empower together! 🌟 #ChattingWithSlava
