Inside Health Sport and the female body
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Jul 22, 2025 Kirsty Elliott-Sale, a Professor of Female Endocrinology and Exercise Physiology, joins the conversation about the unique challenges faced by female athletes. They dive into how menstrual cycles can profoundly affect both performance and injury risks. Insights on tracking menstrual health offer strategies for optimizing athletic training. The importance of a well-fitting sports bra is also highlighted, reflecting on its impact on performance. Overall, the dialogue stresses the need for tailored support and research to empower women in sports.
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Athlete Calli's Menstrual Experience
- Calli Hauger-Thackery feels most fatigued and heavy-legged just before her period, impacting her running.
- She uses a period tracker as essential athletic equipment to plan and manage her races effectively.
Menstrual Cycle's Complex Impact
- Menstrual cycles involve fluctuating estrogen and progesterone levels affecting physiology variably.
- Performance impact is individual, with no clear phase guaranteeing stronger or weaker athletic output.
Psychological Effects of Periods
- Physical and emotional premenstrual symptoms can impair athletic performance.
- Anxiety and distraction from period-related worries also negatively affect focus and output.