Tips for working out on your period

Need some tips for working out on your period? Listen up! When it’s your time of the month, it’s hard to muster the energy to get up off the sofa, let alone go out and smash that workout. But exercising can actually help you feel less sluggish and bloated, while also alleviating period symptoms such as cramping and lower back pain. However, there are some workouts that are going to be more beneficial than others, so monthly subscription service Pink Parcel has collaborated with 1Rebel trainer, Esmée Gummer, to share some tips and tricks on working out on your period.

Why is it beneficial to exercise on your period?

Even though it’s probably the last thing on your mind, exercising on your period is a must. It releases those endorphins giving you a natural high. Your body temperature is also higher than usual, so you can really sweat out that heat and finish with a cool shower.

Should you take it easier than normal?

Believe it or not you shouldn’t be taking it any easier, even though it feels like you should. Your body is stronger than you think and it’s more a mental push you need. When you are on your period you feel sluggish and fatigued so if you can push through it imagine how strong you will feel when you’re not!

Can you recommend an exercise that you could perform to help with back pain?

Yoga is beneficial for not only relaxing the body and mind, but also to release the muscle tension in the back. The downward facing dog particularly will loosen tense muscles.

Can you recommend an exercise to perform when you have bloating?

Bloating is horrid when you are on your period, especially when exercising – it makes you feel worse than you actually are. Swimming is a great way of exercising with low impact and will naturally relax the tension through motion.

Can you recommend an exercise for when you’re feeling tired?

When you feel tired and that you can’t be bothered to exercise, surprisingly High intensity interval training (HIIT) is your golden choice! HIIT means short bursts of energy over a period of time. So 20 seconds of your maximum effort with a short break will keep you engaged and your energy levels will go through the roof.

Can you recommend an exercise for when you’re feeling stressed?

EVERYTHING and ANYTHING. There is nothing more effective than the natural kick of endorphins released around your body. For that extra release, try boxing: there is nothing better than beating a bag down and letting all your troubles melt away.