Working Out During Your Period
Understanding How Your Body Responds to Exercise
Exercising during your period might seem challenging, but staying active can actually help ease symptoms like cramps, fatigue, and mood swings. Understanding how your body responds to movement at different stages of your menstrual cycle can empower you to make the most of your workouts—even on days when you might not feel your best.
This article explores the benefits of exercise during menstruation, types of workouts that may feel better during this time, and tips for staying comfortable.
Benefits of Exercising During Your Period
While every period experience is different, research shows that light to moderate exercise can offer a range of benefits, including:
Reducing cramps and pain: Physical activity increases blood flow and releases endorphins, which act as natural pain relievers. Movement can also relax the uterine muscles, helping ease discomfort.
Improving mood and easing PMS symptoms: Exercise helps alleviate irritability, anxiety, and other mood-related symptoms by boosting endorphin levels.
Boosting energy: Hormonal shifts during menstruation can make you feel drained. Gentle movement can help increase energy and mental clarity.
Best Types of Exercise During Your Period
If you're feeling up for movement, these lower-impact exercises are often well-suited for menstruation:
Light cardio: Walking, light cycling, or low-intensity workouts can boost circulation without straining your body.
Yoga and stretching: Gentle poses like child’s pose, cat-cow, or seated forward bends help reduce tension and calm the body. Avoid inversions on heavier flow days for added comfort.
Swimming: The buoyancy of water eases joint pressure and provides a refreshing full-body workout.
Light strength training: If you feel strong enough, moderate weightlifting can be beneficial—just be mindful of your limits.
Always listen to your body. If you're feeling particularly tired or crampy, rest or stick to gentle movement—it’s all part of honoring your cycle.
Exercises to Approach with Caution
Some types of movement may feel more difficult or uncomfortable during your period, such as:
High-intensity workouts: You may find that intense cardio or strength training feels more draining during menstruation.
Inversions (in yoga): While not harmful, headstands or shoulder stands can feel uncomfortable on heavier days.
Strenuous core work: Deep abdominal exercises may intensify cramping—opt for stretching instead if needed.
Check In with Your Healthcare Provider
Before making any changes to your fitness routine—especially if you experience painful or irregular periods—it’s a good idea to speak with your healthcare provider. They can help you understand what’s safe and effective for your body, and offer personalized guidance based on your needs.
How Lunakit Can Support You
At Lunakit, we believe in making each phase of the menstrual cycle a little more manageable. That’s why our care packages are thoughtfully designed with supportive products that soothe cramps, uplift mood, and help you feel more like yourself—whether you're exercising or resting.
With free educational resources and customizable kits delivered to your door, we’re here to support your cycle every step of the way.