When do we start getting the power in understanding and working with our cycle? We are taught so very little about our menstrual cycle and how understanding the different phases, when they are, how they impact you and how you can use this information to support yourself better.

An article in the Sydney Morning Herald (https://www.smh.com.au/sport/menstruation-the-last-great-taboo-in-women-s-sport-20180308-p4z3e7.html ) explains to about how female athletes are impacted by their menstrual cycle. After some research they were able to identify two main things your period can cause is dehydration and fatigue, fairly significant information if you are a high performing athlete I’d think.

Recognising this ensured they drank a lot more fluids, especially things like low-calorie Lucozade, and then on the day of the match they drink high-sugar Lucozade, so they got as much energy into them in terms of carbs.

Other coaches have been using this information to support the girls during training sessions. Craig Robertson, a sports scientist and coach with Swim England and City of Leeds Swim Club, has been part of trailblazing changes to the training program for the female swimmers in Leeds, including 2016 Olympian Georgia Coates.

He is adapted training regimes around his swimmers’ menstrual cycles, shifting a bigger workload to the start of their cycle, when they are less fatigued, before adjusting to a lower intensity as the swimmer comes towards her period.

“The awareness of knowing what could happen has made the girls feel more comfortable and by feeling more comfortable, they have performed better,” he said.

This is yet another way of explaining the strength of understanding your cycle. Emgoddess workshops explains this and more. Sharing information that can empower women whether you are an athlete, a student, a mum, or just learning about your menstrual cycle for the first time.

Really powerful stuff.