Have you ever thought about how your cycle affects the way you exercise?
The highs and lows of hormones means that at certain times in your cycle it’s better to slow things down and do very light, gentle exercise. And at other times in your cycle, you feel full of energy and ready to take on the world.
Menstrual Phase
Do you notice a difference in the way you feel about exercise during your menstrual cycle?
I do.
During the first few days of my period, I usually stick to light and gentle yoga sessions, because I find that anything else leaves me feeling totally drained afterwards, which is the opposite of how I want to feel after I work out!
Follicular Phase
I notice a huge difference in my energy levels as soon as I finish my period.
Do you?
My energy skyrockets (along with my estrogen and progesterone levels) and I feel ready to take on the world!
It’s during this time of my cycle, I like to try new types of exercises, new classes, new instructors and new yoga flows. I find that I’m much more open to trying new things and the energy I have helps me retain new information.
Ovulation
There’s a point in our cycles where we feel so full of energy, like we can conquer the world!
Can you relate to this?
This is usually happens around day 14-16 of our menstrual cycles when we ovulate. We’re at the peak of our powers and it’s the point when our estrogen and progesterone levels are at their highest.
This is the time in our cycles when it’s great to go hell for leather into your hardest, most challenging class, turn the dial up to the hardest you’ve ever gone in your spin class or add a bit of extra weight in the gym.
Luteal Phase
Do you ever feel a bit sluggish and tired in the week before your period? As estrogen and progesterone start to drop, so do our energy levels.
This is the time when you might feel a bit moody, bloated and your skin might breakout a bit.
During this time in my cycle, I try not to push myself, unless I’m really feeling up to it.
Instead, I focus on restorative yoga flows, lots of slow paced sun salutations and brisk walking (I can’t get away from walking, living in London!).
The peaks and troughs of our hormones and how they connect to our energy levels show how important it is for us to listen to our bodies and not force ourselves to exercise that our bodies aren’t ready for that particular day.
Do you want to talk more about your menstrual cycle and getting control of any hormonal issues that are stopping you from exercising and leading a life full of energy? Book in for a free 30 minute Hormone Health Review!
