Athlete Anecdote - Menstrual Cycle

As athletes, understanding your menstrual cycle is more important than it might seem at first. It’s not just about knowing when your period will come- it’s about learning how your body works and how to take care of it during different phases of the cycle.

I used to feel like my period was something I just had to push through. But once I started understanding my cycle, I started performing better. For example, there were days when I’d feel completely out of energy or not as strong, and it was frustrating. Once I started tracking my cycle, I noticed patterns- like how my energy levels were usually lower right before my period. Knowing that helped me plan better, whether it was adjusting my workouts or making sure I stayed hydrated and fueled.

 A turning point for me was a tournament last year. On the second day of my period, I felt completely drained. But once I knew my cycle, I packed extra snacks and electrolytes and it made such a difference in my performance. It was a reminder that taking care of your body isn’t a weakness- it’s smart.

I also think it’s important to talk about this stuff openly. For a long time, periods felt like an awkward topic that we didn’t mention, especially in sports. But the more we talk about it, the easier it is to share tips, support each other, and even advocate for things like better period products or more flexible policies for athletes.

Learning about your cycle is empowering, both in sports and in life. It’s about understanding your body, working with it instead of against it, and knowing that it’s okay to prioritize your health.