It’s Women’s Month! We’re here to share informative content and create awareness around women’s health to help our members make informed decisions and live better quality lives.
During menstruation, most women experience fatigue, bloating, painful cramps, easily upset stomachs and breakouts. This may impact the type of sport you feel up to doing. However, light to moderate physical activity can have benefits such as reducing pain, improving mood and boosting energy levels. Try these activities:
- Walking
Walking is a low-impact exercise that can be easily adjusted to your comfort level. It helps increase blood flow and can alleviate menstrual cramps and fatigue. Plus, exposure to nature and fresh air can instantly lift your mood. - Yoga
Gentle yoga poses can help stretch and relax the muscles, reducing tension and discomfort. Click here for a quick yoga routine to practise in the morning and evening during your menstruation. - Pilates
Pilates exercises can help strengthen the core and pelvic muscles, potentially easing menstrual pain. Look for Pilates routines that avoid excessive strain or pressure on the abdominal area. - Cycling
Whether you do this outside or at the gym, light cycling can be beneficial for some women, as it increases blood flow to the pelvic region and may relieve cramps. If using a stationary bike, opt for a lower resistance setting.
- Swimming
Swimming is a low-impact exercise that can be soothing and alleviate muscle tension. The buoyancy of water can also reduce the feeling of heaviness some women experience during menstruation. - Tai Chi
Tai Chi is a mind-body practice that involves slow, flowing movements, which can be calming and help manage stress and discomfort. - Light Aerobics
Low-impact aerobic exercises like low-intensity dancing or aerobics can be suitable for some women during their menstrual cycle. Choose a fun, up-beat playlist to add extra mood benefits.
Listen to your body throughout this period. Remember to stay hydrated and take as many breaks as needed. If you have severe discomfort or pain during your period, speak to your medical doctor about lifestyle or medical changes that could improve your quality of life.