Can you work out on your period? You may be asking yourself this when your menstrual cycle begins. The good news is that exercising during menstruation is not only safe, but can also have numerous benefits. Dive in as we explore the benefits — as well as the potential risks — of exercising during menstruation, provide tips for exercising safely and comfortably, and address common questions and concerns about exercising during your period.

benefits and potential risks of exercising during menstruation

Many people experience discomfort and fatigue during their menstrual cycle, but exercising can actually help alleviate these painful period symptoms. Exercising releases endorphins, which can help reduce menstrual pain and improve mood. 

However, it's important to listen to your body and avoid overexertion during your period. Excessive or intense exercise can cause cramps, fatigue, and other health issues. Additionally, some people may experience heavier bleeding or an increased risk of injury during menstruation, so it's important to adjust your exercise routine accordingly.

tips for exercising safely during menstruation

When it comes to exercising during menstruation, it's essential to prioritize your comfort and safety. Here are some additional tips for exercising safely and comfortably during your period:

1. pay attention to your menstrual flow: If you have a heavy flow, you may want to avoid exercises that involve a lot of jumping or bouncing, as this can increase the risk of leakage and discomfort. Instead, consider exercises that are more low-impact, like cycling or walking.

2. use menstrual products that work for you: Everyone's menstrual experience is different, and it's important to use menstrual products that work best for your body and your workout routine. Some people prefer using tampons or menstrual cups, while others may opt for free bleeding, period underwear, or pads.

3. take care of your muscles: During menstruation, your body may be more prone to muscle cramps and soreness. Consider incorporating stretching or foam rolling into your routine to help alleviate muscle tension and improve circulation.

4. fuel your body with nutritious food: Eating a balanced diet with plenty of nutrients can help support your body during your menstrual cycle. Foods like leafy greens, lean proteins, and complex carbohydrates can provide energy and support overall health.

5. stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water before, during, and after your workout can help prevent dehydration and reduce the risk of cramping.

6. manage pain and discomfort: If you experience period cramps or other discomforts during intense exercise, consider using pain relief methods like heat therapy or taking over-the-counter pain medications as directed by your healthcare provider.

By following these tips and listening to your body, you can exercise more safely and comfortably during your period. Remember, every person's experience is different, so it's important to find what works best for you and your body!

is it good to exercise on your period?

There are many benefits to exercising during menstruation. In fact, some experts say that regular exercise during menstruation can help relieve period cramps, improve mood, and reduce stress.

Research has also shown that exercise can increase endorphins, which are the body's natural painkillers that can help reduce menstrual pain and discomfort.

Some examples of exercises that may be beneficial during menstruation include:

1. yoga: Yoga can be an excellent way to relieve menstrual cramps and reduce stress. Certain poses, such as the downward dog or child's pose, can help stretch and soothe the muscles in the pelvic area.

1. pilates: Pilates is a low-impact exercise that can help strengthen the core muscles and improve posture. This can be especially beneficial during menstruation, when the body may feel more fatigued.

1. cardio: Cardiovascular exercises, such as jogging, cycling, or swimming, can help increase blood flow and reduce bloating and water retention.

when should I avoid exercise on my period?

While exercising during menstruation can be beneficial, there may be times when it's best to avoid it. For example, if you're experiencing severe cramps or heavy bleeding, it may be best to rest until the painful period symptoms subside.

If you're new to exercising or have any underlying health conditions, it's always a good idea to speak with your healthcare provider before starting a new intense workout routine.

work out on your period with Thinx

To make exercising during your period more comfortable, it's important to wear clothing that allows for comfortable movement. Opt for loose-fitting, breathable clothing that won't chafe or irritate your skin. You may also want to consider investing in fabrics that will wick away moisture to help keep you feeling fresh and dry during your workout.

Wearing comfortable and absorbent products can help you feel more confident and secure while working out during your period. Thinx undies are designed to absorb menstrual blood and can provide extra protection during physical activity. Even when you are not on your period, try Thinx for All Leaks if you want to exercise comfortably without worrying about bladder leaks. They’re made with breathable, DryWick layer technology to keep you feeling fresh and dry, so you can focus on your workout.

At Thinx, we strive to provide our readers with the most up-to-date, objective, and research-based information. Our content is crafted by experienced contributors who ground their work in research and data. Articles contain trusted third-party sources that are either directly linked within the text or listed at the bottom to lead readers to the original source.

sources: 

Harvard Health. Staying Active at That Time of The Month. https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/staying-active-at-that-time-of-the-month-2016100510408 

Women's Health Magazine. How To Boost Your Fitness By Tailoring Your Exercise Routine To Your Menstrual Cycle. https://www.womenshealthmag.com/fitness/a33083972/working-out-on-period/ 

American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Physical Activity and Exercise During Pregnancy and the Postpartum Period. https://www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/committee-opinion/articles/2020/04/physical-activity-and-exercise-during-pregnancy-and-the-postpartum-period 

Verywell Health. How Exercise May Change on Your Period. https://www.verywellhealth.com/exercise-effects-on-menstruation-4104136

by Team Thinx