Can women exercise on their period?

 

Going to the gym during a painful period might be a tall order, of course, but there are plenty of other alternatives. A long walk, a gentle swim or some yoga stretches can ease discomfort and help you feel a lot more positive. 

A workout or physical activity will also make you feel better overall, as exercise stimulates endorphin production in your body.



Some myths:

Myth 1: It’s not safe to exercise during your period.

Truth: Providing you don’t overdo it, exercising during your period is not only safe, it’s encouraged by experts.

 

Myth 2: You gain weight just before your period.

Truth: It’s actually just water retention, which disappears by the time your period starts.

 

Myth 3: You burn more calories if you exercise when menstruating.

Truth: Nope. But you do if you exercise in the luteal phase of your cycle, just before your period.

 

How To You Choose Your Workout?


Being realistic and listening to your body goes a long way in helping you decide on whether you want to walk or run a few kilometers. It is also perfectly fine to relax once in a while on the couch, with a hot bag and some TV if the body demands some pampering. The key is to enjoy what you are doing and being guilt-free!

 

What to Avoid?

Exercising during periods should not put extra stress on the body or cause pain. Though not proven, you can avoid doing inverted yoga positions including handstands, shoulder stands, or legs on the wall. These exercises could encourage blood flow to the opposite direction of where it’s supposed to go. Also, avoid strenuous prolonged exercises and stop when you feel too much pain or fatigue.

 

If you enjoy exercising, there is no reason to disrupt your workout routine when on your periods. It doesn’t have to be a high-intensity, hardcore workout – just keep it moving and vary your workouts according to your energy levels. Take some time to recover and finally, honor what you are capable of! 

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