Periods & the gym

11 replies

PinkFizz1 · 06/02/2022 09:54

Hi, I’m interested as to what (if any) difference you ladies make to your workouts if you’re on your period. Or if you have particularly bad ones.

I’m thinking a few days of gentle cardio (walking, recumbent exercise bike) but it just doesn’t feel like I’m doing much.

Does anyone switch up their workouts during their periods?

OP posts:

LaLaLouella · 06/02/2022 09:56

I don't tend to alter my workouts during my period - I find exercise helps with my menstrual cramps, or at least takes my mind off it!

I don't have particularly heavy periods though, so don't tend to have to worry about it too much...

FourEyesGood · 06/02/2022 12:24

I have horribly heavy periods, so I do more intense workouts (e.g. longer runs; heavier weights and more reps) on my heaviest days (to distract me from what’s going on in and around my womb). I do have to double up with protection, though: mooncup and period pants.

Tellthemagain · 06/02/2022 12:28

I ease off a lot as I just don't have e the strength the same during period. as long as I keep myself going I'm happy to write off 4 days of hard sessions.

dementedpixie · 06/02/2022 12:29

I just do the same classes as usual. My periods aren't heavy though

passionfruitpizza · 06/02/2022 12:36

I actually find the week before the worst, with a v obvious decrease in power in gym so I use this week as a deload.
If you look at something like the Nike fit app they give suggestions of workouts based around your cycle.

m1shap3 · 06/02/2022 18:13

I tend to just do exactly the same. The most annoying thing is having to make sure I change a tampon just before going for a long run, for example. Or remember to take them to the gym. Or not wear my light grey leggings 😬

HeyBlaby · 06/02/2022 18:23

I do the same as usual, wear a tampon and Nike shorts with integral knickers so I can put a pantyliner in too.

Original poster

PinkFizz1 · 06/02/2022 21:57

Thanks for the replies!

I read somewhere about not lifting weights during your period, something to do with iron levels or something? Might be complete nonsense. Think I just need to pop a couple of painkillers, switch to tampons and get on with it!

OP posts:

Chely · 07/02/2022 10:23

I just continue as normal. Will wear a pad as well as tampon if doing heavy squats or deadlifts though as the pressure can increase flow a fair bit. I home gym though so easy to change as needed.

ZoeTheThornyDevil · 07/02/2022 22:47

I dont really notice any difference..? Per PP, exercise helps with cramps so I try to get in there with a run or aerobic workout, but otherwise I just do what I'd normally do.

blobby10 · 08/02/2022 10:16

In the old days I had REALLY heavy periods so skipped working out on days 2-4 as I would just flood. But I did read that you are at your strongest towards the end of your period and the week afterwards so always tried to get back into the gym/go for a run or cycle at that point.

Now I'm older and periods have settled down I just carry on as normal - some months I'm just too bone tired but on those days maybe drop the weights down or not push myself so hard. I find it best to listen to my body as every month is different but then I'm 53 so getting on in years and on my way to the knackers yard

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