The Angry Vegan
PERSONAL TRAINING
Est. 2007
Strength Training for Menopause – Build Strength, Confidence & Control
Coaching Designed for Women Like You
I’m Fran O’Brien, a Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years’ experience in the NHS and a qualified strength coach. I’ve spent my career supporting women through every stage of life, from early adulthood right through to menopause and beyond. That medical background, combined with my coaching experience, means I understand both the science of what’s happening to your body and the practical steps that actually help.
I specialise in working with women going through menopause, helping you rebuild strength, protect bone health, and feel more in control of your body again. I know first-hand how the changes at this stage of life can feel overwhelming – from fatigue and weight gain to loss of confidence – and I’ve seen how much difference structured strength training can make when it’s done safely and consistently.
Unlike many trainers who simply advertise “menopause fitness,” I bring the knowledge of a Women’s Health Nurse together with proven, practical coaching. My role is to guide you with the right tools, tailored to your needs, so you can feel stronger, healthier, and more like yourself.
Why Strength Training Matters During Menopause
I see every week how much difference lifting weights can make for women during and after menopause – and the research fully backs it up.
The NHS advises regular strength training for adults over 35, with even greater benefits for women in midlife, from improved bone density to better balance.
A University of Exeter study showed that structured resistance training not only reduces common menopausal symptoms but also improves physical function and confidence.
Even the Royal Osteoporosis Society recognises strength training as one of the best tools for protecting bone health – a key concern for women in and after menopause.
This isn’t theory – it’s evidence-based, proven, and practical. Strength training builds resilience, reduces long-term health risks, and gives you the confidence to feel strong again.
How I Build Your Programme
No two women experience menopause in the same way – so no two training plans should look the same either. That’s why I start by getting to know where you’re at right now: your health history, your activity levels, and how menopause is affecting you day to day.
From there, I build a programme that works with your body, not against it. For some women, that means beginning with lighter strength work to rebuild confidence, balance, and mobility. For others, it’s about progressing safely into heavier lifts that protect bone density, maintain muscle mass, and give you the strength to feel capable in everyday life.
My background as both a Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner and a qualified strength coach means I don’t just focus on sets and reps – I look at the whole picture of your health. Every exercise, every progression, and every adjustment is designed with your safety, your symptoms, and your long-term wellbeing in mind.
This isn’t about quick fixes. It’s about giving you the tools to take control of your health, build lasting strength, and feel at your best through menopause and beyond.
Here’s what that looks like in real life, from women I’ve worked with in the gym:
Real Women. Real Results.
The best way to understand what training with me is really like is to hear from the women themselves – here’s what some of my clients have to say.
Michelle - 56
“I truly appreciate Fran’s patience, understanding, and inclusivity. Living with young-onset dementia brings its own challenges, but Fran empowers me to push my limits without ever making me feel patronised or diminished.” – Michelle
Tracy - 45
“I only joined recently after a consultation with Fran, and I love it. Having never done anything like this before, Fran and Nicky have been so patient teaching me the exercises and making sure I use the equipment properly.” – Tracy
Penny – 53
“In my early fifties, after nearly 20 years in a desk job, I retrained for conservation work – outdoors and physically demanding. Fran has been brilliant at tailoring programmes to build my strength, and her encouragement has helped me regain confidence.” – Penny
How I Coach
When you train with me, you won’t just be handed a random workout – every session is built around where you are now, how you’re feeling that day, and what we’re working toward long term. Some days that means lifting heavier and testing your strength, other days it means focusing on form, mobility, or building back confidence after a setback.
I’ll push you when you need it and slow things down when that’s the smarter choice. My background as a Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner means I understand the changes your body is going through – and how to train safely and effectively through them. You’ll always know why we’re doing something, and you’ll never be left guessing if it’s right for you.
What to Expect in a Session:
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Clear instruction and coaching tailored to you
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Progression at the right pace – not rushed, not stalled
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Support and encouragement without judgement
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A safe, private space to train and ask questions
Ready to Take Back Control?
Menopause doesn’t have to mean slowing down. With the right training, you can feel stronger, move better, and rebuild confidence in your body. I’ve seen it work time and again – and I’d love to show you what’s possible for you too.
If you’d like to learn more about how I coach, you can read more about training with me here. Or, if you’re ready to get started, book your free consultation and first session today.
More about menopausal fitness:
Strength training during and after menopause is more than just exercise – it’s one of the most effective ways to protect your health for the long term. Studies from the NHS, the Royal Osteoporosis Society, and the University of Exeter all highlight the role of resistance training in improving bone density, reducing menopausal symptoms, boosting balance, and maintaining independence later in life.
At The Angry Vegan Personal Training in Huddersfield, Fran O’Brien brings unique expertise as both a Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner and qualified strength coach. Her approach is evidence-based, supportive, and designed to give women over 35 the tools to stay strong, healthy, and confident through every stage of life.
Whether you’re completely new to training or looking to get back into it, the focus is on building lasting results in a private gym environment where your progress is the priority.