The benefits of running during your time of the month

The thought of running during your period might make you want to throw your trainers into the bin.

If you’re skeptical about exercising during that time of the month, then it’s okay, you’re not alone. When suffering from painful cramps and other uncomfortable side effects, exercise is likely the last thing on your mind.

But there are actually many benefits to working out while menstruating, and you could find that running, and other forms of physical activity, will help reduce discomfort as well as boost your mood. 

It aids cramps

It’s no secret that cramps can be debilitating, making it hard to complete your usual daily activities. But going for a run could actually alleviate some of this pain.

Running while menstruating can aid in increasing blood circulation, which promotes oxygen flow and can minimise bloating or swelling.

In fact, according to a 2019 study, working out between 45 and 60 minutes three times a week during your period will help prevent severe cramps, making the worst week of the month more bearable.

It can boost your mood

It’s a well-known fact that running is a major mood-booster, with the activity releasing endorphins in your body.

But did you know that endorphins are also a natural painkiller? A few minutes of running could alleviate pain in the same way as taking pain medicine, but could also make you feel happier and improve your mood.

Ideal during a time when your hormone levels are fluctuating!

It relaxes pelvic muscles

If you stay sedentary for a long period of time, your muscles become stiff, causing movements to feel painful.

However, when you run, it relaxes your pelvic muscles and causes less contractions around the abdominal area, resulting in less excruciating cramps and a happier woman.

It can increase your energy

Your bed might be your best friend during the worst week of the month, and staying wrapped up instead of facing the world might feel like the better option.  

There’s a reason you don’t feel like moving as much during this week, though, as your progesterone and oestrogen levels are at their lowest, causing you to feel tired and less energetic.

Feeling lazy is an unfortunate PMS side effect, but it can be easily tackled by going for a run, as the increase in oxygen levels that come from aerobic exercise will also make you feel more energised!

Tips and tricks

Your hormone levels change during your period and can change the way your body reacts while exercising.

Make sure to stretch before and after running, and don’t feel disheartened if you’re unable to work at your usual intensity. More importantly, stay hydrated in order to maintain your electrolyte balance, or be ready to face more cramps.

You should also carefully consider your hygiene produce of choice. If you usually opt for sanitary pads, running in them can lead to chafing and rashes. Instead, think about switching to a menstrual cup or tampons while exercising.

It’s not unusual to be concerned about how well your hygiene products will perform when exercising. However, if you’re worried about running in public, why not invest in a foldable treadmill that can be used in the comfort of your home and beyond the duration of your period?

Conclusion

Depending on lifestyles and circumstances, it’s not uncommon for people to consider skipping their exercise routine during their period.

If you find yourself still unable to exercise on your period, don’t feel disheartened. But if you can, running offers many benefits and can provide valuable pain relief without the need for lots of medication.

The key to a rewarding and consistent exercise regime during your period is to plan ahead, in terms of hygiene products, and make sure to stay hydrated to avoid additional discomfort.