Trying to exercise when you are bleeding might seem irrational. It may be the last thing on your mind when suffering from bad cramps, nausea, headache or other menstrual symptoms. Laying down in a fetal position is sometimes the only solution. We understand. However, exercise during your period can help relieve the adverse effects of menstruation. Here, we provide some brief information about the benefits of exercising while on your period.

The following are some benefits of exercising while on your period.

Exercise releases endorphins. It is widely understood that endorphins are chemicals in the brain, also called “feel-good hormones”, which have pain-relieving effects, and pleasure-inducing properties, and are responsible for maintaining a healthy hormonal balance. It’s a natural way of regulating irregular periods.

Over time, exercise will decrease inflammation, improve blood flow, and increase energy. Researchers have found that the more regular you are with your exercise, the better your period will be, with less cramping and less heavy flow.

Exercises that improve your circulation can help ease fatigue and mood swings associated with your period and menstrual cycle.

Exercise can support healthy living for most people, especially when it comes to hormone balance. 

In addition to reducing pain, cramps, bloating, depression, mood swings, irritability, fatigue, and nausea, exercising can also increase energy levels.

Every person’s body is different.

On the topic of exercising during your menstruation, many websites and influencers encourage people to “get out of bed!” and “do moving!”. Movement can help cramps to a certain extent, as discussed above. Our concern is the tone of the discussion; menstruating women can be productive and active, but we must remember that everyone is different; no one solution will work for all. In some cases, people with menstrual disorders have intense cramps. In contrast, in others, cramps may only be present on the first day of bleeding, making it easier to exercise. People suffer in silence and do not seek medical treatment due to menstruation’s taboo. This leads to many people never openly discussing their period symptoms. Our pain levels are too normalized in societies around the world. So next time, if someone is experiencing period cramps, try offering them comfort and pain killers rather than forcing them to exercise. It’s all about sensitivity.

When I’m on my period, should I work out?

It is up to you to decide what feels right for you. You can exercise, walk, or play sports. Hormone levels fluctuate during the cycle, so one cycle may differ from another. It’s likely you already know what feels right for your body. Each period is different, so listen to yours. A month may pass in which you have a light flow, no cramps, and high energy levels. However, it might be much harder to walk a lap around the block next month. Give yourself a break if you don’t feel like it. Don’t blame yourself for not doing all you can.

You may find that high-impact rapid movement aggravates your cramps and leaves you feeling exhausted. If you do high impact training, your body will be stressed and fatigued, so you should do something that makes you feel better and energized.

Light cardio exercises, such as a walk outside, can be a good alternative when you are on your period.

According to some studies, strength training during the follicular phase leads to greater gains in muscle strength than training during the luteal phase.

Move in a way that benefits your body, not harms it. 

Pushing yourself when it does not feel right is not a good idea. Take extra time to recover if you feel extremely tired, nauseous, and have increased pain and discomfort.

Keep in mind! Talk to your doctor if your periods are regularly interfering with your life. In the case of heavy periods and major pains, you may have endometriosis.

Buy a menstrual cup and do not worry about the exercise during periods. You can exercise easily while wearing a cup.