How to Workout When You Have PMS l 12WBT Blog

Working Out With PMS

Being a woman comes with lots of wonderful virtues, but during that time of the month when PMS hits, we can feel anything but wonderful.

For many women, the days leading up to our menstruation cycle can be tough to get going. Often, we feel more like throwing on the baggiest pair of pants that we can find, grab a cuppa, yummy treats and cuddle up on the sofa with a good movie.

Let’s take control of our unique gifts as woman of strength and embrace how effective we can still be with our health and fitness goals, despite feeling moody and unmotivated.

Some tips to help make these few days super successful ones:

Self care:

Aim to maintain your routine with your exercise and this really is paramount in moving you towards your goals.

Having said that, it is important to listen to your body and apply some TLC. If you can honestly say that you would be worse for following your workout as planned, why not switch things up and try something different or less intense.

Hormones:

There are many different hormones being released throughout each month. This can actually make working out during what may seem like the best time to rest up completely, a very productive time for massive wins! Take advantage of the benefits to training during your cycle instead of taking this time to back right off.

Bloating:

This is a good time to pay extra attention to nutrition and avoid processed foods. Those extra 8 coffees per day to attempt to pick up the mood can make us feel worse. So, be sensible with things, eat lots of nutritious food groups and drink lots of water.

Fatigue:

You are probably going to feel way more lethargic with the symptoms of PMS than at other times in the month, so arm yourself with some winning strategies for sleep routines and if possible, try to get a little more shut eye.

Feeling tired can bring about cravings for sugary foods. Getting adequate rest is putting you in a better position for stable levels throughout the day.

Caffeine free herbal teas can be very beneficial for relaxation.

Cramps:

Exercise has shown to be very effective in reducing the severity of cramps and with the uniqueness of how we all respond, choosing what you feel works best for you is totally fine.

If you are about to skip your workout if you can’t face your scheduled session, change it for something different so that you still move and choose an activity that soothes your tummy woes.

Hydration:

Many of PMS symptoms can be helped by sufficient water intake, so making sure that you drink first ahead of reaching for comfort food.

Dress:

It’s unlikely that you will feel like attending your class or workout wearing your tightest and figure hugging attire. Subsequently, soft, comfy and breathable clothes can feel much nicer and spur us on to maintain a fitness routine.

Stretch:

Stretching is SO good when you feel like curling up instead, as this can relieve much of the cramping and bloating. Try following the ‘Bend it like Bridges’ workout video. Learn more here.

Also Read: 13 Things You Worked Out With in the 90s That’ll Mean Nothing To Kids Today