Middle-aged Korean women's experiences of physical activity during the transition to menopause: a grounded theory approach.

purposeThis study aimed to comprehensively explain middle-aged Korean women's experiences of physical activity during the transition to menopause.

methodsThe participants were 13 middle-aged women in the menopausal transition who engaged in physical activities more than three times per week for at least 12 weeks. Data were collected through in-depth interviews and participatory observations from September 2022 to June 2023 and analyzed using Strauss and Corbin's grounded theory methods.

resultsThe core category identified was "continuing my new daily life while improving my body and mind." The central phenomenon was "desperation for change," with causal conditions including "inconvenience with menopausal symptoms" and "physical and mental burnout." The contextual condition was "surviving," while the action/interaction strategies were "finding the right physical activity," "focusing on physical activity," "enjoying physical activity," "practicing in life," and "continuing new challenges." Intervening conditions included "recognizing the need for physical activity" and "doing it together." Consequences were identified as "settling into a normal life" and "moving forward."

conclusionThis study demonstrates that regular physical activity supports a healthy menopause transition by enhancing both physical and mental well-being, thereby enabling women to adapt in positive directions through life changes. When women earnestly seek change, maintain an active attitude toward life, recognize the importance of physical activity, and utilize support systems, they continue to grow and successfully navigate the transition to menopause.