Associations between body composition, physical activity, and life satisfaction in perimenopausal women aged 40-50 years: a cross-sectional study

INTRODUCTION: Hormonal changes during perimenopause may lead to alterations in body composition, including increased fat mass and reduced muscle mass, potentially increasing the risk of overweight, obesity, and chronic diseases. These changes may also negatively affect psychological well-being and life satisfaction. This study aimed to assess body composition, physical activity, and life satisfaction, and to examine their relationships in professionally active women aged 40-50 years during perimenopause. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted among 106 professionally active women aged 40-50 years in the perimenopausal period. Body composition was assessed using bioelectrical impedance analysis, physical activity using pedometers, and life satisfaction with the satisfaction with life scale. Group comparisons and correlation analyses were performed. RESULTS: Overweight was observed in 81.1% of participants. Mean life satisfaction was moderate (28.4 points). Body fat percentage (BF%) was negatively correlated with life satisfaction (r = -0.33; p = 0.001), explaining 11% of the variance. Body mass index showed a weaker negative association (r = -0.28; p = 0.004). Physical activity was positively associated with life satisfaction (r = 0.36; p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Body composition and physical activity are significantly associated with life satisfaction in perimenopausal women. Physical activity appears to be the strongest predictor, while BF% may act as a partial mediator of this relationship.