How To Stay Active During Your Period With Gentle Workouts

Menstruation is an inevitable and highly personal experience for every woman. That time of the month becomes insufferable for most women due to bleeding, cramps, hormonal fluctuations and mood swings. While escaping from the period and its effects is impossible, reducing the discomfort, pain, and maintaining positive mental health during your period is easily achievable with gentle exercise. Let's explore how staying active during those days can help you get rid of painful periods and establish a healthy menstrual cycle.

Benefits of Exercising During Your Period 

Engaging in physical activities such as exercising during your period may sound difficult, but doing so can be beneficial in various ways. Performing low-intensity workouts during your period can help reduce bloating and cramps, and boost energy and mood. Engaging in gentle exercise like taking a brisk walk, yoga, or cycling can be excellent and one of the most effective ways to deal with the discomfort and pain associated with menstruation.

Best Gentle Workouts for Your Period

A lot of issues that come with periods, including mood swings, unbearable cramps, and prolonged discomfort, can be beaten with gentle workouts. Here are some low-intensity exercises that you can engage in and benefit from during your period. 

• Yoga

Yoga is one of the best ways to stay active during that time of the month. As we all know, yoga offers a range of benefits to your physical and mental health by boosting mindfulness, flexibility, and reducing cramps. Performing a couple of simple asanas during your period, and incorporating yoga into your fitness routine can significantly contribute to establishing a healthy period cycle. However, don't forget to wear proper yoga outfits like the ones offered by Hunnit to avoid potential workout injuries. 

• Walking

Taking a brisk walk every day can also help you stay active during this period. It's better to walk a little bit in the yard or a nearby park rather than staying at home. Taking a 15-minute walk outdoors can be way more beneficial than walking on a treadmill for 30 minutes. It will boost your mental well-being as well as your physical fitness.

• Cycling

Another fun way to stay active during your period is cycling. This low-intensity cardio exercise allows you to have a refreshing experience amidst nature that uplifts your mood and offers you full-body workout benefits including burning calories. PS: always wear the right cycling gear such as Hunnit’s cycling shorts and a quality helmet to avoid any sort of injuries or accidents.

 

 

Listening to Your Body: Knowing Your Limits

While engaging in physical activities during this period comes with a wide range of benefits, it's also important to keep in mind that pushing yourself too hard during this time can be worse. Knowing your body well is essential to avoid any mishaps. Remember, just staying active with gentle exercises is beneficial enough for your menstrual challenges, you don't need to be hard on yourself whether it's during your period or not. 

Tips for Staying Comfortable While Exercising 

Performing workouts while being on your period is understandably going to feel different. The cramps, discomfort, and flow all collectively contribute to creating that difference. However, you can easily dodge them with a couple of simple hacks. 

• What you wear has a profound impact on how you feel. To avoid discomfort, opt for snug-fit activewear like a sports bra and workout leggings or stretchable shorts while breaking a sweat. 
• Make sure you stay well hydrated with plenty of water and fruits. Performing exercise in a dehydrated state will only boost the dehydration, leaving you tiresome and sick. 
• During your period, eating well is very important. As your body goes through a lot in this phase, providing adequate nourishment is essential. Also, you will have enough energy for a workout only when you are well-fed.

Mental Health Benefits of Gentle Exercise During Period 

The menstruation phase is associated with hormonal fluctuations which often lead to deterioration of mental health. Therefore, prioritising your mental health is essential during this period, and engaging in gentle exercise can significantly help you with that. Reducing anxiety, mood swings and stress is much easier with a couple of simple workouts, making it the perfect way to deal with the mental challenges of menstruation. With a holistic fitness approach, following an active lifestyle during the period can help you transform the energy-draining, insufferable process into a positive experience that takes care of both your mental and physical well-being.

FAQs

1. Can I exercise during my period?
Yes, you can exercise during your period! In fact, engaging in gentle workouts such as yoga, walking, or cycling can help reduce cramps, bloating, and improve your mood. Low-intensity exercises during menstruation provide both physical and mental benefits, making it easier to manage period discomfort.

2. What are the best workouts to do on your period?
Some of the best gentle workouts to do during your period include yoga, brisk walking, and cycling. These low-impact exercises help alleviate period cramps, reduce bloating, and stabilize your mood without putting too much strain on your body.

3. How does exercise help reduce period cramps?
Exercise helps reduce period cramps by promoting blood circulation and releasing endorphins, the body's natural painkillers. Low-intensity workouts like yoga and walking are effective at easing muscle tension and discomfort, making them ideal for staying active during menstruation.

4. Is yoga safe to do during menstruation?
Yes, yoga is safe and highly beneficial during menstruation. Performing simple asanas can reduce cramps, improve flexibility, and promote relaxation. Yoga during your period can help maintain a balanced mental and physical state while easing menstrual symptoms.

5. What should I wear while exercising during my period?
It’s important to wear snug-fit, comfortable activewear during your period to avoid discomfort and prevent potential workout injuries. Opt for moisture-wicking, stretchable clothing such as yoga pants, cycling shorts, or leggings paired with a supportive sports bra, like those offered by Hunnit Activewear.

6. Can exercising during my period improve my mental health?
Absolutely! Exercising during your period can help reduce stress, anxiety, and mood swings by boosting endorphins and promoting mental clarity. Gentle workouts can alleviate the emotional challenges brought on by hormonal fluctuations during menstruation.

7. Should I rest on heavy flow days, or can I still stay active?
It’s important to listen to your body. While light activity like walking or yoga is generally safe even on heavy flow days, if you’re feeling fatigued or uncomfortable, it’s okay to take a rest day. You don’t need to push yourself—gentle movement is beneficial but not mandatory.

8. How does staying hydrated help while working out on your period?
Staying hydrated is crucial during your period, especially when exercising. Dehydration can worsen cramps, fatigue, and bloating, so drink plenty of water before, during, and after your workout to keep your energy levels up and reduce period discomfort.

9. Can exercise regulate my menstrual cycle?
Yes, regular exercise can help regulate your menstrual cycle by promoting hormonal balance and reducing stress. Gentle workouts like yoga and walking can contribute to healthier periods by improving blood flow and overall physical well-being.

10. Why should I avoid high-intensity workouts during my period?
High-intensity workouts can put extra strain on your body during menstruation, potentially worsening cramps, fatigue, and discomfort. Instead, opt for gentle exercises that support your body without overexerting it, ensuring you stay active while managing menstrual symptoms.