The impact of Perimenopause and Menopause on Female Equestrian Riders performance and participation

Bradley, Stephanie and Mills, Claire ORCID: 0000-0003-4156-4593 (2024) The impact of Perimenopause and Menopause on Female Equestrian Riders performance and participation. In: Women in Sport & Exercise Academic Network (WiSEAN) Conference 2024, 19th June 2024, University of Portsmouth. (Unpublished)

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Abstract

Background: Understanding the impact of menopause (M) and perimenopause (P) symptoms with female equestrian riders is crucial as it potentially affects not only sports performance due to physiological and cognitive changes, but also psychological well-being. However, there is limited research relating to the impact and its implication for the future success of female equestrianism. Aims: This study explored the perceived effect and influence of P and M on female equestrian rider participation and performance and identified the challenges they experienced to help improve coach awareness and support. Methods: n = 1,629 female participants from a broad range of equestrian disciplines aged between 21 – 73 years of age (x ± s; age = 51.86 ± 14.95 years) who were within or beyond P or M were recruited. An online non-validated questionnaire was administered via the Facebook platform. Descriptive statistics and thematic coding were used for further analysis and interpretation. Results: Key themes included: (1) Physical discomfort and health changes, including joint pain (74%), weight gain (66%), and decreased physical strength (71%) affect riding ability and enjoyment. (2) Mental Health and emotional well-being, with sleeplessness (74%), anxiety (78%), and a loss of confidence (76%). (3) Riding confidence and ability, with a decrease in riding confidence (75%), particularly around jumping and faster work, with fears of injury and a longer healing process, with 50% jumper/eventers opting for less risky disciplines or reducing the intensity of their riding. (4) Support and awareness suggested the was a lack of support regarding M within the female equestrian community. Finally, (5) Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) had alleviated symptoms that interfere with riding and daily life. Conclusion: The P and M experience for female equestrians is complex and can negatively impact performance and participation of female equestrians.

Item Type: Conference or Workshop Item (Poster)
Additional Information: Presented in Main Lecture Theatre, Session 10- Posters Oral. Day 2 of the Conference 12.00-12.45.
Related URLs:
Subjects: H Social Sciences > H Social Sciences (General)
H Social Sciences > HN Social history and conditions. Social problems. Social reform
H Social Sciences > HQ The family. Marriage. Woman
Q Science > QP Physiology > QP301.H75 Physiology. Sport
R Medicine > RG Gynecology and obstetrics
Divisions: Schools and Research Institutes > School of Education and Science
Depositing User: Claire Mills
Date Deposited: 15 Oct 2024 14:45
Last Modified: 15 Oct 2024 14:45
URI: https://eprints.glos.ac.uk/id/eprint/13954

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