Navigating Workouts & Your Menstrual Cycle: A Chill Guide

Hey there! Ever felt like some days you could totally crush a workout and other days just...meh? Well, it's not just you! Our menstrual cycle plays a big role in how we feel and function. So, let's break down the phases of our cycle and figure out the best workouts to match our ever-changing mood and energy levels.

Breaking Down the Monthly Rollercoaster:

• Follicular Phase: It starts with day one of our period and goes up until we ovulate, typically around 14 days. Thanks to our buddy estrogen, our energy levels are like, "Let's go!" during this phase.

• Ovulation: This is the middle bit (think days 13-15) when one of our ovaries is like, "Catch!" and tosses out an egg. We're often feeling pretty fab around this time, but our joints might be a bit more wobbly.

• Luteal Phase: After ovulation and right up until our next period (around days 15-28), we might feel a bit moodier or just wanna binge-watch Netflix. It's totally normal, and yes, we can blame hormones.

• Menstruation: AKA 'Period Time.' This is when our body says, "Better luck next time" and sheds the uterine lining. It might come with cramps, fatigue, or cravings for all the chocolate.

The Best Workouts for Our Feels & Hormones:

• Follicular Phase:

  • What to Try: We're feeling good, so why not go for it? Think HIIT, a good run, or lifting some weights.

  • For Instance: A kick-butt 30-minute HIIT sesh with burpees, squat jumps, and push-ups. Get that adrenaline pumping!

• Ovulation:

  • What to Try: We're on top of the world, but we've gotta watch those joints. Strength training is great, but let's be careful with super high-impact stuff.

  • For Instance: Rock a full-body weightlifting routine. Squats, deadlifts, bench presses - oh my! Just make sure we're not wobbling too much.

• Luteal Phase:

  • What to Try: We might feel a bit off, or PMS might be making its grand entrance. Time for something chill like yoga, Pilates, or a cute cardio dance class.

  • For Instance: Dive into a yoga class that has all those relaxing poses. Breathe in, breathe out, and let go of that stress.

• Menstruation:

  • What to Try: If we're feeling bleh, it's cool to rest. But if we're up for it, some swear by light exercise to beat the cramps. Gentle yoga, a stroll, or even a swim can do wonders.

  • For Instance: Take a breezy 20-minute walk around the block and finish off with some zen stretches.

Wrapping It Up:

Our menstrual cycle is kinda like that unpredictable friend - always full of surprises. By tuning into our bodies and adapting our workouts, we can ride the waves a little smoother. But, hey, always remember to do you. Every body is unique, so do what feels right and give yourself a high five for showing up! 🙌