Exercise Tips While Menstruating
Take a Painkiller
If you have to go to the gym, pop a mild painkiller like aspirin and go for your workout. Start slowly by doing a warm up or a slight jog on the treadmill. Gradually your pain will subside and the cramps will seem minimal. Exercise is said to enhance blood flow to the pelvic region, which helps to reduce cramping pain women experience during their menses.
Be Kind to your Body
Some women are not very fortunate and have to undergo very painful periods with heavy bleeding especially on the first two days. Exercising or gymming may not be an option. Either take a day off or try some gentle stretching ad yoga, which will calm you without exerting your body. Tune in to your bodily cues and listen to what your body is trying to tell you.
Wear a Tampon
Many women experience discomfort and rashes on their legs with the use of sanitary pads especially on the first two days of their period. This is true especially if you are engaged in vigorous sports. In such cases, it is best to just wear a tampon which is a hassle-free way of dealing with the bleeding and yet enjoying your workout. Most swimming athletes wear tampons during swimming practice.
Use Thin Absorbent Pads
With technology, many companies are coming out with super thin and soft pads that really absorb the blood well. They also do not stain your underwear or cause rashes.
Try out different brands to see what suits you. You can wear these pads during your workout without a worry in the world or fretting over whether you will stain yourself.
Refrain from Stomach Crunches
Just to be on the safer side, avoid doing stomach crunches or sit-ups if your bleeding is very heavy or you are cramping badly. Doing crunches can make matters worse and exacerbate your discomfort. Just go for a moderately brisk walk and combine it with some gentle stretching.
Do Low Intensity Workouts
Your energy levels drop during your periods because you burn an additional 300 calories during your period. There is simply no point in overexerting yourself. Just opt for a low intensity workout at least for the first two days of your period when you are likely to feel your lowest.
Do What you Enjoy Doing
Working out in a stuffy and claustrophobic room, which is packed, with gym goers and sweaty bodies may not be a great way of staying in shape especially if you are already feeling uncomfortable with your period. Just think outside the box and engage in a mild activity like going for a walk in the rain or a hike in the woods. Catch some fresh air, which will soothe your nerves.
Wear Dark Clothes
Exercise to Feel Better
Staying at home all day is likely to make you irritable, moody and depressed. Instead, go and hit the gym. Not only will you meet like-minded people but also your exercise schedule will keep fatigue and depression at bay.
Stay Hydrated
Along with blood, you will also lose a lot of bodily fluids, hence, it is important to stay hydrated at all times. Drink plenty of water during and after your routine.
Tips When Exercising On Your Period was originally published on blackdoctor.org
