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If you’ve spent any time on social media, you may notice that some of your favorite fitness gurus are switching up their fitness routines to incorporate cycle syncing workouts. This revolutionary approach acknowledges the fluctuating hormone changes within the body, providing a more personalized and effective training program. 

What Are Cycle Syncing Workouts?

The idea behind cycling syncing is to optimize activities based on the body’s natural hormonal fluctuations throughout the menstrual cycle. By understanding these changes, you can tailor your workout routines to better support your well-being and performance. This approach recognizes that a woman’s body undergoes different physiological changes during each menstrual phase, and adapting lifestyle choices accordingly may lead to improved results and a greater sense of wellness. 

However, it’s important to acknowledge that cycle syncing is still a relatively new concept, and there isn’t enough research to support its effectiveness yet. That’s not to say that it doesn’t work though, as studies have shown that hormonal fluctuations during menstrual cycles impact energy levels and mood. 

Why Should Women Understand Their Menstrual Cycles?

If you’re a woman of menstruating age, understanding your cycle is essential as it can tell you a lot about your health. Understanding the four phases isn’t just for women who plan to get pregnant but also those looking to get the most out of their workouts. 

When you recognize the distinct phases — from the energy surge in the follicular phase to the energy dip in the luteal phase — you can personalize your workouts, nutrition and self-care routine to be in sync with your body’s natural rhythms. 

The Four Phases

While the length of a menstrual cycle may differ for each woman, it typically lasts 28 days on average. However, it’s still considered normal for a menstrual cycle to be 21 to 35 days long. The four phases are characterized by distinct hormonal changes impacting energy levels, strength endurance and stamina. You can optimize your workouts and follow your body’s natural cues by aligning your workouts with these fluctuations.

The Menstrual Phase (Days 1-5)

The first phase, the menstrual phase, is when the uterus lining sheds, resulting in menstruation. Hormone levels, particularly estrogen and progesterone, are at their lowest during this time. Women may experience lower energy levels and are more prone to fatigue and discomfort. It’s advisable to engage in lighter, lower-impact movement during this phase as it’s the perfect time for self-care practices, allowing the body to recover and recharge.

• Walking: Aiming for 30 minutes of brisk walking can improve blood circulation and reduce cramps and bloating. Taking your walk outdoors in the fresh air is a fantastic mood booster.
• Yoga: Yoga is a mindful movement that promotes relaxation and reduces stress. Focus on restorative yoga poses, like the bridge pose and savasana, to alleviate muscle tension.
• Stretching: Gentle, static stretches are great for relieving stiffness and improving flexibility. Pay extra attention to particularly tense areas, like your lower back and hips.

The Follicular Phase (Days 6-14)

As the menstrual flow subsides, the follicular phase begins. Estrogen levels start to rise, leading to a much-needed energy boost. This phase is optimal for more intensive workouts as many women find that they can push their physical limits during this time, making it an ideal period to focus on building strength and stamina. Switching up your workout routine can add excitement and challenge to your sessions, so take advantage of your body’s heightened capabilities. 

• Strength training: Take advantage of your increased energy and endurance by picking up some weights for compound exercises like squats and deadlifts. Focus on lifting moderate to heavy weights with proper form to build lean muscle and boost your metabolism. 
• Running: Cardio is a great way to make use of your increased stamina and energy levels. Running enhances your cardiovascular fitness and the release of endorphins boosts your mood. Include both steady-state runs and interval; training to maximize benefits. 
• Swimming: Swimming is a lower-impact cardio workout that’s much gentler on the joints but still engages multiple muscle groups. Consider interval training and various strokes for added intensity. 

The Ovulatory Phase (Days 15-17)

The ovulation phase occurs around the middle of the menstrual cycle when the ovary releases an egg. Estrogen levels peak during this time, resulting in a surge in energy, improved mood and enhanced physical performance. This is an excellent time for activities that demand peak performance. Women may find they feel more sociable and motivated during this phase, making it the ideal time to engage in group activities for team sports.

• High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT): Your energy levels are at their peak during this phase, so HIIT workouts are ideal for fat burning and improving your fitness levels. Choose full-body workouts to really capitalize on your energy. 
• Spin classes: Spinning is lower-impact on your joints, but still provides a challenging cardio session. Adjust the resistance and speed according to your personal energy levels and enjoy the group atmosphere for added motivation. 
• CrossFit: CrossFit involves full-body functional movements for strength and endurance, focusing on compound movements like squats, deadlifts and cleans. The group atmosphere encourages a sense of community and competition. 
• Dance workouts: Participating in group fitness classes like Zumba is a fun and effective way to stay active during this phase. Dancing engages multiple muscle groups, improving coordination, balance and mood. 

The Luteal Phase (Days 18-28)

Progesterone levels rise during the luteal phase, preparing the body for a potential pregnancy. While energy levels may still be relatively high in the early part of this phase, they may start to dip as it progresses. Moderate-intensity movement and mind-body activities are recommended. This phase is also a crucial time for self awareness and self care, as some women may experience premenstrual symptoms such as mood swings, bloating, headaches and cravings. 

• Yoga or barre: Low-intensity, mindful movements can ease discomfort while promoting flexibility and balance. Include poses that target the hips, lower back and hamstrings as they tend to get stiffer at this time of the month.
• Pilates: Pilates focuses on controlled movements that strengthen the core and improve posture. 
• Strength training: When your energy levels are higher, opt for moderate weights with higher repetitions. Resistance training can help you maintain muscle tone without excessive strain, supporting metabolic health and overall strength. 
• Self-care practices: Make sure you get sufficient rest, adequate hydration, balanced meals and listen to your body cues during this time. 

Embrace Cycle Syncing Workouts

Revolutionize your fitness routine with cycle syncing workouts by embracing the natural ebb and flow of your menstrual cycle. You can optimize performance, manage your energy levels and create a harmonious balance between your physical and mental well-being by aligning your activities with hormonal fluctuation.