Celebrating International Women's Day 2024

Leisure centres in Chipping Norton, Carterton, Windrush and The Vale of White Horse are experiencing an unprecedented surge in demand for women-only boxing and weights classes.

Many of the sessions are led by internationally-acclaimed powerlifter Kate Sweatman – who hopes to attend the IPF European and World Championships later this year – with her prowess leading the way for local women to build their own strength.

This interest comes amid growing public awareness that physical activity is vital for maintaining optimum health as women approach midlife and the menopause.

“In order to maintain a healthy bone density and retain muscle tissue, women need to undertake weight-based exercise,” Kate explains. “This is especially important for women who post-menopause will experience a reduction in oestrogen. This can cause a reduction in bone density, which will continue over time. 

“Weight training can help by increasing metabolism, improving muscle mass and bone density (which therefore can mitigate the effects of osteoporosis in old age), strengthening the heart, and improving balance and coordination. It can also help to improve muscle definition and posture, and assist with weight loss due to an increase in calories being used.”

Building strength also brings mental and emotional benefits, Kate continues. “Strength training allows women to feel capable and strong; this will of course have a positive impact on the way they see themselves and their own individual capabilities. Exercise and strength training can also provide time away from other external stressors which may be affecting a person. This time for ‘me’ and can give some well-needed respite from day-to-day life.”

Jane Edwards, aged 60, from Witney tried her first strength class with Kate six months ago and is now ‘hooked’. “I definitely feel more confident and stronger and it's a real buzz when you can physically see you’re building muscle-strength,” she comments. “I'm always disappointed when I’m unable to attend a session.

“I would encourage anyone to give strength-training a try. I would never have imagined I would have the ability to achieve what I have done already. Kate is a fantastic coach who always tailors the session to each person's individual needs.”