Many women feel like they can't exercise during their time of the month, and they feel weak, heavy, and generally unmotivated to work out. What if I told you that exercising during your period is not only good for your body but also great for your mind? Here are four reasons we all need to get our booty's in gear and work out when we're menstruating!
Are there any health risks of exercising during your period?
We get this question a lot at MPower Fitness Coaching , and we're happy to report no known risks associated with exercising during your period. Of course, it's essential to listen to your body and stop if you experience any pain or discomfort and take the necessary recovery time needed.
If the discomfort continues, please consult your doctor.
1. Exercising during your periods boost your mood and combat PMS symptoms
Many women feel a little bit of depression and anxiety around their period, but they don't realize that these symptoms can be relieved with a bit of physical activity! It is because exercise releases endorphins, the body's natural anti-depressants. When you get your sweat on, you boost your mood and combat symptoms of depression.
2. Exercise during a period enhances blood circulation and eases cramps.
According to Kinesiology Professor Stephanie Faubion from the University of New Mexico, to relieve menstrual cramps and pain, women should exercise to enhance blood circulation and flexibility in muscles.
Exercise helps provide relief from menstrual cramps by relaxing muscles and increasing oxygen supply, which brings higher energy levels. In women with menstrual cramps, exercise could relax the uterus by stimulating blood flow to the lower uterine region while relieving muscle tension in the abdominal and pelvic areas that contribute to the pain.
Exercise has been effective for relieving menstrual cramps. However, you must apply it correctly. Taking any medicine, such as painkillers and relaxants, is not recommended for menstrual cramps because it may cause damage to the body through long-term use.
3. Working out on a period beats fatigue and headaches.
Did you know that working out can help boost your energy level? You probably do, but did you know it's also great for banishing headaches and migraines? Many women are tired on their periods because of bloating, cramping, and fatigue. Exercise at MPower Fitness Coaching will surely give you the kick-start you need to get moving!
4. Working out regulates irregular periods naturally
Many women suffer from irregular periods, and the most common repercussion is anemia. During our period, we lose more iron than usual, which needs to be replenished each month. When you exercise, you boost your red blood cells production, which helps to regulate menstrual cycles.
What exercise is best during your period?
Pilates, running, cycling and yoga are all good for you during your period because they don't put too much pressure on the body. Swimming is also great but be careful when diving in because water retention can make your cramps ten times worse!
Light cardio workout
Cardio is a great way to keep your energy level up and boost your mood, and it's also an excellent way to stimulate blood circulation, release endorphins and fight fatigue. You can go for a 10-minute run or even do some squats during commercial breaks while you're watching TV!
Easy exercises you can do at home.
You don't have to go to the gym to exercise, and you can do your exercises in the comfort of your home. You can do some exercises in your spare time, in your bedroom or your living room, without using any equipment. You can do squats, leg raises, and lunges. You can also try your hand at Pilates or yoga.
If you don't feel like getting out of bed, take a good stretch in the comfort of your bedroom. It's also a great way to wake up!
Yoga
Yoga is a great way to take it easy and relax. The best part is that you can do it in your bedroom or living room without equipment. Yoga also helps bring oxygen and energy levels up, which you need during your period!
It also helps to bring the whole body into a relaxed state and manage stress. There are yoga movements that stretch your body and include squats and lunges. It is also a low-impact routine that helps if you have problems with your feet, joints, or legs.
Is there any exercise you should avoid during menstruation?
You should avoid any high-impact activity, such as running and jumping, because it can worsen your period. Also, it would help if you tried to stay away from exercises that make you feel nauseous or dizzy because this might be a sign that something is wrong with your body. It would help if you also avoided different stretches that put pressure on your abdomen.
Your MPower Fitness Coaching trainer will know what type of exercises to give you to help alleviate cramps and menstrual pain.
Exercise during your period: How to have a pleasant experience
Exercise during menstruation is always a massive concern for many women. You might feel like you want to take it easy and avoid any activity because it could make your cramps worse. Although, if you already have a basic knowledge about your period and what to expect from it, you can make a plan ahead. The last thing you want is having to stop exercising because of cramps or fatigue.
You should always take into consideration how bad your cramps are before working out. It's also imperative for you to be aware of your body, listen to what it says, and respect its signals.
If you are suffering from bad cramps, the best thing for you is not to exercise that day because you might feel dizzy or weak. Exercising during menstruation is excellent, but only if you feel good enough to do it! Listen to what your body has to say and do what it is telling you.
If you have a more severe case of irregular periods, you should talk to your doctor to find ways to regulate them naturally. Exercise has been proved by scientists as great for menstrual regulation, but only if done correctly!
Conclusion
Exercise during your period is a great way to stay fit and boost your mood. It an mpowering fitness move for women!
Just make sure that you know what's going on with your body before doing any activity. If you have basic knowledge about your period, listening to what it says comes naturally. Remember that menstrual cramps can be pretty intense, so you need to be aware of your body.
Listen, respect, and take care of your physical needs because the last thing you can do is hurt yourself during this time.