Exercise is widely recognised for its physical and mental benefits, but its impact on hormonal balance is equally significant. This post explores how and why different types of exercise can enhance both psychological well-being and physiological resilience, and therefore its importance throughout the menstrual cycle.
Psychological Benefits
Exercise triggers the release of endorphins – your body’s natural mood lifters that can help ease anxiety and depression symptoms often linked to PMS. Activities like yoga and walking are particularly beneficial for lifting your mood and easing emotional ups and downs. A study published in Psychosomatic Medicine confirms this, finding that ‘regular exercise significantly reduces symptoms of anxiety and depression in women’.
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Stress Reduction: regular physical activity reduces cortisol (the stress hormone) levels, which begins to rise in ovulation and peak during the luteal phase.
- Self-Esteem and Confidence: achieving fitness goals or simply showing up for workouts can boost self-esteem, which is crucial during phases when hormonal fluctuations might affect mood and body image. Research in Body Image highlights the positive impact of exercise on body satisfaction.
Support your body and your mindset with period-proof activewear like Modibodi’s leak-proof workout underwear, made for comfort during every phase of your cycle.
Physiological Benefits
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Hormonal Regulation: exercise helps balance hormones, which can help reducing common menstrual symptoms like bloating, cramps, and fatigue. Even light exercise during your period can ease discomfort and help maintain steady energy levels. This is supported by a study in Journal of Women's Health, which noted that exercise helps regulate menstrual symptoms.
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Improved Sleep: regular exercise helps regulate sleep patterns, which can be disrupted during the menstrual cycle. Better sleep quality supports overall health and fitness goals, allowing your body proper time for rest and repair.
- Immune Support: physical activity enhances immune function, which is important during phases when the body might be more susceptible to illness.
Making Your Workouts Work for You
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Choose What You Love: find activities that bring you joy – whether that’s running, swimming, strength training or group classes. Enjoyment is key to staying consistent.
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Mix it up: Change your routine to include strength training, cardio, and flexibility exercises to support your overall health and keep things interesting.
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Stay Hydrated and Nourished: fuel your body well and drink plenty of water to get the most out of your workouts.
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Listen to Your Body: Keep a workout diary to track how you feel during each phase and adjust your routine accordingly. This personalised approach helps you work with your cycle, not against it.
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Friends with benefits: Exercising with friends or joining group classes can boost motivation and accountability, especially when your energy dips.
What you wear matters, too!
When you're moving through your cycle, comfort is key - and that includes what’s underneath. Modibodi x PUMA Seamfree Period Underwear is designed for workouts — breathable, leak-proof, and seamless, so you can stretch, lift, or sprint with confidence and comfort. Whether you're stretching it out in yoga or powering through a workout, these are made to support you every step (or squat) of the way.
Embracing all the Advantages of Exercise
Exercise is about so much more than just physical fitness – it’s a powerful tool to enhance your mood, resilience, and overall well-being. By tuning into your body’s rhythms and choosing activities that make you feel good, you can create a sustainable fitness routine that supports you every day of the month. Ready to move with more confidence? Explore the Modibodi Activewear Collection — designed to support you through every cycle phase, with leak-proof styles for light to heavy flow days.
About the Author
Alicia Portelli is a fitness coach with over nine years of experience in the industry. She holds a Certificate III & IV in Fitness and is a qualified Personal Trainer and Group Fitness Instructor. Alicia specialises in rhythm cycling, with a coaching style that’s energetic, inclusive, and empowering. She’s passionate about helping people grow and feel confident in their bodies - both in and out of the studio.
This information is not a substitute for a medical opinion. If you have medical questions or concerns, please consult a doctor for medical advice.
