Personal trainer shares how to feel your best when playing sports on your period

Five ways to ensure you feel confident while playing sports on your period

1. Pick the right exercise clothes

Think about the exercise wear that you’ll feel comfortable in, without feeling self-conscious, especially if you’ll be playing sports during the first couple of days of your period. So, perhaps you might want to avoid any white pieces of clothing. Ideally, you want to go for clothes made out of soft fabrics, like cotton and avoid any tight clothing, as it might restrict your blood flow, causing discomfort or even cramps.

2. Always stay hydrated

While staying hydrated is always important, it’s even more crucial when you’re on your period in the summer and especially if you’re playing sports outdoors. Due to the iron you lose throughout the duration of your period, your energy levels and the fluids in your body decrease, so drinking more water than you usually would is essential. The advised amount of water women should drink daily is 2.7 litres, so to make sure you’re hydrated, have a water bottle with you at all times.

3. Be mindful of what you eat

You might feel tempted to eat foods that contain a lot of sugar, like chocolate, pastries or any type of sweet treats, but it would be best to avoid them. In fact, foods containing a lot of sugar or saturated fats can increase inflammation in your body and lead to painful period cramps. If you crave something sweet, opt for fresh fruits instead, as they will provide your body the nutrients it needs.

4. Swimming is still an option

Don’t be afraid to go for a swim because you’re on your period. Take your pick from tampons, menstrual cups or period swimsuits, which look exactly like any other swimsuit, but are specifically designed not only to absorb menstrual blood, but to avoid potential leaks, as well. Choose the option best for you and jump in the water.

5. Don’t neglect exercising

Although it might be the last thing you’d want to do, especially if you’re on your period, doing some exercise can be very beneficial. It doesn’t have to be anything super challenging, a simple long walk will work, too. Exercising will help reduce bloating and cramps, as it improves blood circulation, not to mention it also reduces stress and improves one’s mood. So, incorporate some exercise in your days to ensure you still have the best holiday.

Ceri Clarke, a personal trainer and online coach, shares useful advice on the topic:

“Just check in with how YOU feel. Exercise has been shown to help alleviate many of the menstrual cycle symptoms like reducing cramps. However, if you are doubled over with cramps then maybe opt out of anything too intense. But if you are feeling good, there is no reason why you can’t perform and to as high a standard as when you aren’t menstruating!

“Ensure you are wearing a sanitary product that feels comfortable for you to perform (and that you trust not to leak!) in. There are so many great products on the market these days from period pants to cups, so trial out a few and see what works best!

“Feeling comfortable in your kit. Breasts can become more tender so having a supportive sports bra is essential. Bloating can also be an issue for some so make sure your kit is not too restrictive or uncomfortable.”

Credit https://www.livefootballtickets.com/ who commissioned the data.