Female Athlete Diaries

Down to the Bones with Keely Mancini

Kirsty Sheehan

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The Fight for Bone Health: Keely Mancini's Journey with Osteopenia 

In this episode of Female Athlete Diaries, host Kirsty Sheehan welcomes Keely Mancini, a seasoned Pilates teacher and educator with over 25 years of experience. Keely shares her surprise diagnosis of osteopenia bordering on osteoporosis and how a DEXA scan revealed her bone density issues. Despite her active lifestyle, she delves into the contributing factors, including periods of poor diet during her early dance career, the impact of breastfeeding, and her journey through menopause. The conversation highlights the importance of bone health, the role of diet, exercise, and lifestyle choices in maintaining bone density, and Keely’s efforts to educate clients and young women on these crucial topics. She also discusses her adaptive training routines, the significance of specialist consultations, and embracing aging while focusing on longevity.

00:00 Introduction to Female Athlete Diaries

00:34 Meet Keely Mancini: Pilates Teacher and Endurance Athlete

01:42 Keely's Osteopenia Diagnosis

02:14 Understanding Bone Health and DEXA Scans

04:53 Keely's Athletic Background and Bone Health

07:33 Impact of Diet and Lifestyle on Bone Health

09:36 Challenges of Maintaining Bone Health Through Life Stages

18:19 Raising Awareness and Educating Others

25:39 Exploring Bone Health: Initial Steps and Professional Consultations

26:48 The Importance of Vitamin D and Sun Exposure

28:49 Understanding Celiac Disease and Gut Health

30:32 Exercise and Bone Health: Key Practices

33:30 Educating Teenagers on Bone Health

38:32 Adapting Exercise Routines with Age

40:20 Practical Changes for Bone Health and Aging

42:01 The Role of Foot Health in Overall Well-being

45:32 Final Thoughts and Contact Information