Periods & Exercise

[blugurl]

I've read in some magazines that exercising during periods helps lessen the cramps and pains. But on the other hand, I've also read that one shouldn't lift heavy things that time of the month.

So, do tell if it's safe to workout or not? Should I restrict myself to cardio at that time, or should I continue with my routine (3-day split)?

Of course, common sense tells one to stop if she's giddy etc., so lets keep that thought in mind. ;)

[Laurie]

Oh gosh, its been 7 years since I have had to worry about "periods" (51 and post menopausal). I have also read that exercise did releave cramping, though. At least the pain.

As for not lifting "that time of the month". Just follow your instincts with that one. Just remember, what you are losing is menstrual blood buildup to engorge the tissues, just in case an egg attached after becoming fertile. If an egg did not, you are only losing what was being stored.

When I was younger, a girl was not supposed to exercise during this time or very little. One way of getting out of high school gym class.

But then, for a teenage girl to even think about lifting heavy weights then would have been unheard of.

[Stefanogym]

Originally posted by blugurl
I've read in some magazines that exercising during periods helps lessen the cramps and pains. But on the other hand, I've also read that one shouldn't lift heavy things that time of the month.

So, do tell if it's safe to workout or not? Should I restrict myself to cardio at that time, or should I continue with my routine (3-day split)?

Of course, common sense tells one to stop if she's giddy etc., so lets keep that thought in mind. ;)
you have to reduce the intensity and the volume of your routine...try to reduce for 20%