Boost Your Fitness: How to Work Out During Your Menstrual Cycle and Why Tracking Your Period Matters

Understanding your menstrual cycle is key to better health and well-being. It goes beyond just hygiene and choosing the right products. Monthly periods affect many parts of your life, so it’s essential to know how to navigate them.

Is Exercising During Your Period Safe?

Yes, it is safe to work out while menstruating! In fact, exercise can help ease symptoms like cramps and fatigue. Dr. Julia Victoria Poblete, a doctor at Kindred Health Inc., emphasizes that menstruation shouldn’t disrupt your daily activities. However, listen to your body. If you feel tired, opt for gentle exercises, like yoga, Pilates, or light walking.

Dr. Angelynn Sianghio-Lapada also highlights the benefits of moving regularly. She suggests at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week. But during your period, take it easy. Pay attention to your body’s signals to avoid overdoing it.

Interestingly, a massage can also help soothe discomfort. Dr. Raul Quillamor from Amang Rodriguez Medical Center mentions that massages can have a therapeutic effect, reducing pain for many women during their cycles.

Why Track Your Menstrual Cycle?

In today’s tech-savvy world, there are many apps available to track your cycle, like Flo and Clue. Monitoring your period helps you understand your body better, according to Dr. Poblete. Knowing your usual flow and symptoms can help identify changes that may need attention.

Tracking your cycle is especially useful for predicting ovulation and fertility, which is helpful if you’re trying to conceive or using natural birth control methods. However, keep in mind that apps can sometimes miscalculate your fertile window, so it’s wise to consult an OB-GYN for accuracy.

Lifestyle Changes for Better Menstrual Health

In addition to regular exercise, there are other lifestyle choices that can enhance your menstrual health. Dr. Lapada advises maintaining good posture, taking frequent breaks from sitting, and limiting screen time to improve circulation.

Nutrition plays a role too. A diet rich in omega-3s, vitamins D and E, and calcium can help alleviate cramps. Conversely, high sugar and caffeine intake may worsen symptoms, making it better to avoid these during your period.

Remember, if you notice any unusual changes or have concerns about your menstrual cycle, reaching out to a healthcare provider is always a good idea.

Final Thoughts

Monitoring your menstrual cycle, staying active, and making smart lifestyle choices can significantly empower your health journey. Remember, every woman’s experience is unique, and taking the time to understand your body is crucial.

For more information on menstrual health, consider checking out the CDC’s resources on women’s health here.

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menstrual health, menstruation