Exercise as Medicine — strength and dance to ease menopausal symptoms
Official title: Exercise as Medicine: A Non-Pharmacological Approach to Menopausal Symptoms
Run by Linnaeus University · NCT07351006 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This project will test whether regular strength or dance-based exercise, done three times a week for eight weeks, can reduce menopausal symptoms and improve sleep in women aged 45–55.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 45 Years to 55 Years |
| Sex | Women only |
| Enrollment | 45 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Linnaeus University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Kalmar) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | November 1, 2025 |
| Main results expected | May 2027 |
| Study ends | December 2027 |
| Registry record updated | September 22, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07351006 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Women aged 45–55 who are experiencing menopausal symptoms, are biologically female, have not used menopausal symptom treatments in the past two months, and are not already highly physically active are ideal candidates.
✕Probably not a fit
Women with menopause from surgery or illness, those with medical contraindications to exercise, or those already exercising 150 minutes per week or more may not benefit from or be eligible for this program.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This randomized controlled trial begins with a 45-woman pilot that assigns participants to strength training, dance-based training, or a control group, followed by a larger main trial powered from the pilot results. Interventions are digital, home-based programs delivered with a digital introductory meeting and performed three times per week for about 30 minutes over eight weeks. Outcomes include menopausal symptoms measured by the Menopause Rating Scale (MRS) and sleep quality measured by the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), collected at baseline and two weeks after the intervention via electronic questionnaires. The study will also track adherence to the structured digital training programs and report effects on somatic, psychological, sexual symptoms and quality of life.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the interventions could provide a practical, non-drug option to reduce menopausal symptoms, improve sleep, and boost quality of life for affected women.
How similar studies have gone: Previous small trials and observational studies suggest exercise can help mood and sleep in menopausal women, but evidence is mixed and direct comparisons of strength versus dance programs are limited.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Biological female sex * Age 45-55 years * Experiencing menopausal symptoms, defined as irregular or altered menstruation plus at least one of the following: * Hot flashes or sweating * Sleep problems * Mood swings or depression * Dry mucous membranes * Recurrent urinary tract infections or overactive bladder * Joint pain * Decreased libido * Weight gain Exclusion Criteria: * Have taken medication or natural remedies for menopausal symptoms in the past 2 months * Menopause due to illness or surgical intervention * Medical conditions that contraindicate participation in the exercise intervention * Engaged in physical activity for ≥150 minutes per week, including ≥ 75 minutes at high intensity
Where it's running
-
Sofia Ryman Augustsson
Kalmar, Sweden Recruiting
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.