Is your period actually an ergogenic aid?

For far too long as women we are told that menstruation makes us weak, we are delicate flowers and that we should only engage in activities such as yoga or pilates during this time. Weight training? You must be out of your mind.

I am here to tell you that this is a myth - and your period could be your very own ergogenic aid. Basically, your unique physiological way of enhancing performance and energy production.

In actual fact, our exercise physiology is most like a mans during the follicular phase of our cycle (which includes menstruation). Some research suggests that we are more resilient to stress, able to access carbohydrates better, recover faster and have greater strength gains.

BUT.. and it’s a big but.. If you suffer from heavy periods, excruciating pain or any other symptons that make it impossible to function (let alone lift), then this obviously does not apply to you.

As someone who has Endometriosis, I know first hand that training on day 1 of my period is a no go. I am physically and emotionally depleted. I am in pain and all I want to do is curl up in a ball with my hot water bottle. After this though, normally by about day 2-3, I am READY.

Individual variability is important. Not everyones hormones fall and rise at the same time which is why tracking your cycle is a priority. You want to get in tune with your own cyclical rhythms and plan accordingly. If done right, you will see how your training can quite literally tranform!