I was a sophomore in high school and it was that time of the month, you know what I mean, my period. I woke up with the full intention of skipping my physical education class. I got to class and went straight up to the teacher and said, "Mrs. Rodriguez I can't do it today, I'm on my period. It's heavy, it hurts, I'm not in the mood and I just really don't want to do it!" She looks at me and says, "I'm going to do you a big favor and make you go out there anyway. Physical activity during your period is good for you!" My mouth dropped, "but, but..." She stops me and says, "but nothing, get out there!"
I know what you're thinking... Is this for real? Yes, that really did happen and, yes, exercise can actually be good for you during your period! Exercise can help you feel much better both physically and mentally. I experienced the benefits of exercise for myself. I had all the wonderful, classic symptoms: bloating, fatigue, moodiness and cramping. I'm not one to turn to medication at the first symptom of anything and that includes my period. I actually tried Midol once and that did not go well at all because it contains caffeine and my body doesn't do well with it. Since medicating was not my favorite thing to do, exercise was a great option. When I became very active, I began to notice that my period was being so much more well behaved. My mood improved, I had more energy and didn't feel as bloated as I used to. The only things I don't remember improving much were my cramps and flow but that is probably due to other reproductive health issues that I would later find out about (fibroids and stuff). My period wasn't as bad as it used to be and it was all thanks to being more active. According to Web MD, " research suggests that aerobic exercise can help improve symptoms of PMS... One study found that women who did 60-minute aerobic sessions three times a week for 8 weeks felt much improved physically, mentally, and emotionally" (www.webmd.com).
So I can see a number of you thinking that maybe you'll give it a try but skip the week of your period. Well, hold that thought because according to the US Department of Health & Human Services Office on Women's Health, "on the first day of your period, estrogen and progesterone levels are at their lowest... It may be easier to get active than in the previous weeks"
(www.womenshealth.gov). It is a common misconception that you should not work out during your period. I used to believe this was true until I did my research and started working out during my period. Let me tell you, it's totally doable and you will feel better if you decide to do it! So, with that said, don't let your period be an excuse to skip your work out. Remember... Don't be moody, move that booty!!!
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