Many women are stoic with a lot of what they have to go through.
That monthly inconvenience being one of them.
If the tables were turned, the boys would be whining for sure.
But in all seriousness, periods become such a normal part of life that most women barely give them a second thought.
Here in the gym though… it might be time to start doing exactly that.
Because your cycle can absolutely influence how you feel, how you recover, and how you perform under a barbell.
Here’s what to expect (and why it matters for lifting):
1. Some phases you’re genuinely stronger
During the follicular phase (roughly days 1–14), estrogen rises and many women feel:
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More powerful
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Better recovered
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More explosive
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More motivated
This is often the best time for heavier lifting, PB attempts, and higher‑intensity work. Particularly just after the menstrual phase.
2. Other phases increase injury risk
Around ovulation, estrogen peaks and the body releases more relaxin – a hormone that increases ligament laxity. That means:
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Joints feel “looser”
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Stability can drop
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Injury risk slightly increases, especially with heavy hinge or plyometric (jumping bounding, explosive) work
3. Fatigue, heaviness, and low iron are real
In the late luteal phase and early bleed:
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Energy dips
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Sleep can be disrupted
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Iron levels may drop
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Everything feels heavier than it should
- Feeling hotter during workouts
- Conditioning feels harder (may fatigue faster)
- Dieting might be harder in this phase (you’ll likely push towards carbs/quick energy)
This isn’t “being moody.” It’s physiology. And it’s okay to adjust intensity, swap movements, or train for maintenance instead of performance.
4. You’re not imagining it - your cycle affects your training
You’re not soft. You’re not inconsistent. You’re not “making excuses.”
Your body is literally shifting hormones, blood volume, temperature, and recovery capacity every month. Understanding that helps you train smarter.
You don’t need to avoid training – just be aware and move with intention.
Most importantly and as always listen to your body.