If you're anything like us, exercising is the absolute last thing you want to do when you're on your period. Sit on the sofa and eat tasty things? Yes. Watch comfy TV shows you've seen 322 times? Big yes.
The article from MSN discusses how the menstrual cycle can influence the optimal times for exercise. It explains that during the follicular phase, which starts on the first day of menstruation and lasts until ovulation, women might experience increased energy levels due to rising estrogen levels, making it an ideal time for high-intensity workouts. Conversely, the luteal phase, following ovulation, is characterized by higher progesterone levels which can lead to fatigue, suggesting that this might be a better time for lower intensity activities like yoga or walking. The article also touches on the idea that listening to one's body is key, as individual responses to hormonal changes can vary. It suggests that while there are general guidelines, personal experimentation with exercise timing can help women find what works best for them during different phases of their cycle.