Congratulations on clicking on this headline; I commend you for your curiosity. When experiencing pain and cramps, the last thing one wants to hear is a suggestion to exercise. It seems absurd to even consider moving when all you want to do is lie in a fetal position and feel sorry for yourself.
I vividly remember encountering this mindset when I got my period during a high school camping trip. The intensity of my cramps made me believe I wouldn’t be able to handle the planned hike. Despite my pleas, the adults accompanying us refused to leave me behind. Consequently, I became the girl whose menstrual cycle ruined everyone’s outing.
Enter Greg, a male counselor I had just met. He inquired about my situation, and in my embarrassment, I muttered, “I have cramps.” In response, he proceeded to lecture me about how the hike would make me feel better. Although I don’t recall his exact words, it was something along the lines of, “Blah blah blah, I am smug and smart and know what’s best for your body.”
If only the term “mansplaining” had been coined back in 2003, because that’s precisely what he was doing. However, the most infuriating aspect of his advice was that, well… he was right. To silence him, I reluctantly agreed to give the hike a try.
To my astonishment, after enduring a mile of sulking and pain, a miracle occurred: I started feeling better. My pain gradually dissipated, and my mood improved as I soaked in the beauty of nature around me. Grudgingly, I learned a valuable lesson about the benefits of exercising during menstruation.
So why does exercising help, and how can it benefit you? The answer can be summed up in one word: endorphins. Endorphins are natural chemicals in the brain known for their pain-relieving and pleasure-inducing properties.
Engaging in physical activity triggers the release of endorphins, which not only boost the production of dopamine (the feel-good chemical) but also alleviate pain. In fact, a particular type of endorphin called beta-endorphins can be even more effective in relieving pain than morphine. I like to think of endorphins as my brain’s personal pharmacy.
Additionally, exercise reduces inflammation, improves blood flow, and gradually increases your energy levels. These benefits are particularly advantageous when dealing with period-related pain and fatigue. Pretty amazing, right?
Now, you might be wondering what type of exercise is best during your menstrual cycle. Well, I’m glad you asked because I have prepared a comprehensive guide below to answer just that.
Do exercise(s) you already like
Engage in exercises that you already enjoy. This is not the ideal time to experiment with high-intensity or unfamiliar workouts like CrossFit. Stick to activities that you already know work well for your body, such as yoga, hiking, weightlifting, and so on.
While your hormone levels may fluctuate during your menstrual cycle, your body remains the same. You are familiar with what feels good and what doesn’t for your body.
It’s best to work with what you already know and enjoy. And hey, not having to endure CrossFit is always a welcome bonus.
Focus on the benefits
What often prevents people from exercising is the initial hurdle of getting started. I can relate to that feeling of resentment and pain when I embarked on that memorable hike.
Back then, what motivated me was simply wanting to get Greg off my back. These days, what motivates me is the knowledge of how much better I will feel afterward.
When it comes to exercising while on your period, think about what will personally motivate you. Is it the relief from pain? The feeling of taking proactive steps towards your health and well-being? Or maybe it’s the opportunity to escape from the noise of your inconsiderate upstairs neighbor, giving you a break from their incessantly blaring music while you’re feeling cranky and cramping.
Challenge yourself to give it a try, even if it’s just for 5 minutes. If you end up hating it, remember that you can always stop.
Pick the right period product
It’s essential to choose the appropriate period product based on your activity. If you’re swimming laps, traditional pads won’t be suitable. While tampons are a popular choice for active individuals, some may find them irritating or uncomfortable. Pads, on the other hand, can be more prone to chafing during physical activity.
An alternative worth considering is a menstrual cup, disc, or period underwear. Period underwear can be particularly convenient, as you can simply wear them and continue with your day. It’s worth experimenting with different products to find what works best for you and provides the comfort and functionality you need during physical activity.
Absolutely, taking it easy during your period is crucial. Your friend, the menstrual activist, provided valuable insight by highlighting that this time of the month can be an opportunity for reflection, relaxation, and rest. It’s also an excellent time to connect with others who are experiencing their menstrual cycles within your community.
While I encourage you to engage in movement, it’s important not to push your body beyond its physical limits. Exercise doesn’t have to be intense to be beneficial. Taking a walk around the neighborhood, practicing gentle yoga or stretching, or even engaging in intimate activities like sex can all contribute to getting your body moving, promoting blood flow, and releasing those endorphins. Remember, when it comes to physical activity, doing something is always better than doing nothing.
Listen to your body
You’re absolutely right. Every period is unique and can vary from month to month. One cycle, you may feel energetic and experience minimal discomfort, while the next cycle might leave you feeling drained and struggling to complete even simple tasks.
It’s important not to compare your experience to others, especially if someone else seems to have a different level of productivity during their period. Each person’s body and menstrual experience are different, and it’s crucial not to feel discouraged or let others dictate how you should feel about your own body and period.
Ultimately, you have the authority to understand and honor your own experience. Don’t let anyone, including myself, influence your perception or feelings about your body or menstrual cycle. Trust your instincts and listen to your body’s needs.
This is a guide, not a mandate. Take what works for you and discard the rest
Absolutely, this guide is meant to provide suggestions and options, but it’s up to you to determine what works best for your own body and situation. Everyone’s experience with working out during their period can differ, so it’s important to find what feels comfortable and beneficial for you personally.
If you have any additional tips or tricks for exercising during your period, I’d be more than happy to hear them and incorporate them into the discussion.
And if Greg happens to come across this, it’s great that he was able to teach you a valuable lesson about the benefits of hiking, even if it took some teenage angst to get there. It’s always valuable to learn and grow from different perspectives and experiences.
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