Juliet McGrattan | Running Through Menopause: What Every Runner Needs to Know

In this episode of the UKRunChat Podcast, we’re joined by returning guest Dr Juliet McGrattan to talk about her new book, The Runner’s Guide to Menopause.

Menopause is something every woman will experience, yet many runners feel unprepared for how it can affect their training, performance, and motivation. Juliet shares expert insight — alongside her own lived experience — to help runners better understand what’s happening in their bodies and how to adapt.

We discuss:

• What menopause, perimenopause, and post-menopause actually mean
• Common symptoms that affect runners (and why they’re often misunderstood)
• Why running can suddenly feel harder — and what’s happening physiologically
• The impact of menopause on sleep, recovery, and energy levels
• How running can actually help manage symptoms
• Training adjustments, including the importance of strength work and speed sessions
• Bone health, injury risk, and long-term wellbeing
• The role of HRT and when to speak to a GP
• Why this stage of life might be the most important time to keep running

This episode is for anyone navigating menopause, approaching it, or supporting others, including coaches who want to better understand how to support female runners.

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