Menstruation is a time for women to detoxify. During this period, the body expels impure blood, which includes uterine toxins, waste, shed endometrial tissue, and normal blood flow. Poor blood circulation can lead to dysmenorrhea—essentially, stagnant blood that cannot be expelled, which is detrimental to health. Some believe exercise promotes blood flow and thus choose to work out during their period.Our editors remind you: While the intention is good, it's best to avoid strenuous activity during menstruation to prevent bodily harm. Certain unsuitable exercises should be avoided entirely.
Exercises to Avoid During Menstruation
1. Swimming
Swimming often takes place in public pools, where higher occupancy increases water contamination.During menstruation, the cervix is slightly open. Swimming in such environments risks allowing bacteria or contaminants in the water to enter the body through the vagina. These pathogens can then travel through the open cervix into the uterine cavity, potentially causing inflammation or other issues.This can trigger a contraction response, potentially reducing menstrual flow or even causing amenorrhea. Therefore, swimming is not recommended during menstruation. Women seeking physical activity should avoid it during this time. 2. Exercises Increasing Abdominal Pressure Many women believe weight loss is more effective during menstruation and thus engage in exercises like push-ups, squats, or planks to aid weight loss.Exercises like push-ups, squats, and planks, while effective for weight loss, are not suitable during menstruation. Performing these activities increases abdominal pressure, accelerating blood circulation in the pelvic cavity. This can easily prolong the duration of menstrual bleeding and exacerbate symptoms like dysmenorrhea.
Therefore, to minimize menstrual discomfort, it's best to avoid exercises that increase abdominal pressure.
Exercising during your period is acceptable, but it differs from regular workouts. Besides avoiding prohibited exercises, keep these key points in mind:
1. Prioritize comfort
If exercising during your period, opt for tampons. Inserted directly into the vagina, they offer lightweight comfort.Using pads may cause discomfort during movement as they can shift easily. However, remember not to wear them for too long. While tampons have strong absorbency, leaving them in too long can dry out the vaginal area and may even lead to toxicity.If you experience severe menstrual cramps during your period, making even moving a step difficult, it's advisable to rest. Otherwise, exercise may worsen the pain and increase discomfort. Additionally, women feeling extreme fatigue or dizziness should avoid exercising during their period, as this could lead to accidents like fainting during activity.
Recommended Exercises During Menstruation
1. Meditation Yoga
Meditation yoga is a very calm and quiet practice. Sit cross-legged, calm your mind, close your eyes, and relax into a state of emptiness. Consistent practice can help you quiet your mind and alleviate pain.
2. Walking
Walking is the ideal exercise during menstruation. Its low intensity and lack of location restrictions make it accessible. After dinner and a short rest, take a stroll downstairs or visit a nearby park. Walking engages limb movement, promoting blood circulation and aiding menstrual flow.