Bloating, menstrual cramps, the inconvenience of needing tampons and pads, all of these can trip up women and keep them from walking during their menstrual flow periods.
Time to start believing those ads - you really can go walking, riding, biking and swimming during your menstrual days.
Performance Concerns: Studies have shown there is no decrease in athletic performance for female athletes while they are menstruating. Women have won marathons on a day they are menstruating. If your period falls on race day, just go for it.
But I Feel Crummy: It is harder to get out the door for your walking workout when you are having menstrual cramps, bloating and other effects. But a few minutes after warming up you likely will feel better and won't have interrupted your workout schedule. Studies show that continuing your workouts may result in a lessening of these symptoms.
Products: In the pads vs. tampons debate, you may find that the opposite product from the one you normally use works better for walking. When training for the marathon, schedule at least one of your long distance training days for a day when you will be menstruating so you can find out before the day of the event if you have any preference in this during long duration events. Even if the calendar says race day won't be a menstrual day, the excitement and preparation for the race may result in getting off schedule.
Menstrual irregularities: Female athletes may develop menstrual irregularities, especially if they have very low body fat, heavy training, stress, and poor nutrition. Discuss any irregularities openly with your medical care provider.
Next page >> Chafing
More of this Feature
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Runner's trots
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Stomach upset
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Bladder control
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Urinary frequency
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No toilets
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Menstrual concerns
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Chafing
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Bra problems
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Sore nipples
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Jock itch
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Getting lost
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Itchy legs
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Anxiety and Panic
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Links and Discussion
