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Written by Navneet Kaur, M.Sc. Nutrition & Dietetics

Diet

How to Train According to Your Menstrual Cycle

Train with your cycle, a smarter way to work out for women. Let's work with your body, not against it.

Introduction

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Many women experience bloating, fatigue, mood swings, or cramps at different times in their cycles. Syncing your workouts with your cycle can reduce discomfort, improve results, and boost mental clarity.

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Why Cycle Syncing Matters

Your cycle has four distinct phases: -Menstrual -Follicular -Ovulation -Luteal Each phase affects your energy, hormones, and performance in different ways.

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Understanding Your Cycle

This is your period where energy is lowest; focus on rest and gentle movement. The ideal workout would be walking, stretching, yoga and avoiding high-impact workouts. 

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Menstrual Phase (Days 1–7)

Your energy and motivation are on the rise; you're sharp and ready to push yourself—an ideal time for strength training, cardio circuits, and the best time to learn new skills or routines.

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Follicular Phase (Days 8–13)

During this time, we have peak strength, endurance, and energy; hormones are at their highest, so it is time to go hard. It is ideal for HIIT, running, heavy lifts, and group fitness. Opt to maximize your gains here.

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Ovulation Phase (Around Day 14)

Your energy starts to dip, and hormonal changes may cause mood shifts or cravings. The ideal workout would be moderate strength, pilates, and slow-flow yoga. Focus on maintenance and not on max effort.

Luteal Phase (Days 15–28)

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It can help -Boost performance -Reduce injury risk -Improve recovery -Better mental focu -Feel in control of your body

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Benefits of Cycle-Synced Workouts

Use cycle-tracking apps to align workouts and match your diet to each phase, such as incorporating iron-rich foods during your period and complex carbs in the luteal phase, as awareness leads to better results.

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Tracking & Nutrition

Every phase of your cycle has power. Instead of pushing through fatigue, tune in. Train smarter, not harder and listen to your body, as it knows what it needs.

Conclusion 

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