Do you avoid working out during your time of the month? Exercising when you are on your periods might be counterintuitive. However, working out can help alleviate some menstrual symptoms. If you are searching for "Is it okay to workout during periods?" then we have the correct answers for you!
But before getting to some easy-to-do workouts during periods and knowing how to do the same effectively, let's get into the benefits of working out during periods.
Benefits of Exercising During Your Periods
Exercises help in promoting a healthy lifestyle for all. It can play an important role when it comes to ensuring hormonal balance and a healthy period. There is a myriad of physical and hormonal changes in a woman's body during menstruation, and it can be controlled with the help of exercise to do in periods.
Some believe that working out during periods can also help relieve symptoms like mood swings, anxiety, bloating, fatigue, nausea, cramps, headaches, gas formation, and other similar issues.
It has been observed that working out helps in the release of the 'feel-good hormones' or endorphins which helps in reducing physical and emotional stress.
While some techniques and exercises can be beneficial during your periods, some postures should be avoided during this time of the month.
Also Read: What Leads to Blood Clots During Periods?
Should We Do Exercise During Periods? - Best Exercises During Periods
Many women are unsure about working out when on periods and ask, "Can we exercise during periods?"
The answer to this question is simple –yes.
The initial days of periods could be difficult for some women. In most cases, these are associated with heavy bleeding and menstrual cramps. While not during the initial days, but in later days of your cycle, you can try a lighter workout during periods. Here are some exercises to do in periods.
Walking is One of the Best Exercises During Periods
For women asking, "Can we do exercise in periods?" Walking is an excellent exercise for people who are just starting. A light walk can be the best form of exercise during periods. It helps to release stiffness in the body. So, put on your favorite comfy sneakers and head out for a brisk walk or stroll around.
This period-time exercise is also a great mood enhancer, and at the same time, it will help you with bloating common issues during periods. Aim for gentle body movements, like arm and neck rotation while walking, to help loosen your muscles and relax them overall.
Running is a Great Exercise During Periods
As your symptoms get milder with advancing days of the cycle, you can go for a light run to prepare your body for when your periods get over. While running during periods, take a few breaks in between. In case you are feeling uncomfortable, opt for a walk instead.
Running can help in reducing your overall irritability and relieving period pain. Along with running, you can also try out light gym workouts during periods for some strength building. It is also recommended that you keep yourself well-hydrated throughout the workout process.
Yoga too is an Effective Exercise During Periods
If you are looking for answers to "What exercise can I do during periods?" then yoga is the best answer for you. Yoga is one of the easiest and the most relaxing period time exercises for you to practice. It helps you overcome anxiety and mood swings due to hormonal imbalance during this time. Yoga for PCOS and PCOD has also been effective. Practice some simple stretches and breathing exercises to soothe your symptoms.
Yoga for period, like Downward Dog, Triangle Pose, Pigeon Pose, and others, can help improve blood circulation throughout the body. It has been proven that yoga helps in relaxing your muscles while also helping with period symptoms like bloating and cramps. As a precautionary step, start with easy postures like the butterfly and bridge.
Also Read: Yoga for UTI
Stretching is a Beneficial Exercise During Periods
Simple stretches done at home are the best answers to "Can I workout during menstruation?" If you face difficulties in doing other workouts during periods, you can consider stretching with deep breaths to ease your sore muscles. Be attentive to not over-stretch yourself.
Tips for Exercise During Periods
- Avoid doing strenuous exercises.
- Avoid doing exercises for long hours.
- Yoga with inversion poses is not recommended.
- Keep yourself hydrated when working out.
Conclusion
Your search for "Is it okay to workout during period?" is over. Listen to your body's requirements and carry out light exercises during improved results.
References
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25447680/
https://www.byrdie.com/exercise-during-periods
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/288655033_Effects_of_Pilates_and_Aerobic_Exercise_on_Symptoms_of_Premenstrual_Syndrome_in_Non-Athlete_Girls
https://www.jehp.net/article.asp?issn=2277-9531;year=2018;volume=7;issue=1;spage=3;epage=3;aulast=Dehnavi
