Working Out During THAT Time Of The Month

If you are anything like me, the idea of working out during your cycle makes you want to curl up in a ball and cry. Although my monthly experience is nowhere near as debilitating as it is for some people, it still leaves me feeling heavy, tired and gross. Studies have shown that during menstruation, progesterone and estrogen are at their lowest, which is what makes people feel tired and less energetic during that time. However, there are several benefits to pushing yourself through this and working out anyway. Even light workouts during your cycle can decrease painful cramps, release endorphins to improve your mood and decrease PMS symptoms such as fatigue and mood swings.

Now that we have some motivation to push past the feeling of not wanting to workout, we also have to address the elephant in the room which is the struggle of doing physical activity when you're literally leaking bodily fluids! I hate leaving the comfort of my own home or doing anything besides sitting upright during that time of the month, let alone working out in a gym or doing anything that requires me to jump up and down (iykyk). Thankfully there are some workarounds for that as well! Exercises such as yoga, walking, swimming and strength training are great ways to get your body moving without pushing yourself, or your choice of underwear protection, too far. As women, it is difficult for us to devote the necessary time to self care and working out as we juggle being moms, partners and working. Add on the additional layer of having to do all of that and deal with the hormonal and physical rollercoaster that our bodies go through and it makes it even more difficult! However, women are natural warriors and are built for anything, so next time you find yourself losing momentum during that time of the month, remember these workouts and how much your body will thank you for pushing through!