Understanding the Impact of Menstrual Cycles on Athletes
In 2020, Women’s Super League club Chelsea made headlines by announcing that they were tailoring training programs to align with their players’ menstrual cycles. This forward-thinking approach aimed to optimize performance and reduce injuries among the athletes. The idea behind this move was to leverage the menstrual cycle as a potential variable that could give players a competitive edge, much like sleep and diet.
The Science Behind Phase-Based Training
Despite the allure of ‘phase-based’ training, the evidence supporting its efficacy is still lacking. According to Hannah Dower, an exercise physiologist and PhD candidate at Victoria University, the impact of the menstrual cycle on performance varies greatly among individuals. While hormonal fluctuations during the cycle may affect some athletes, the research is inconclusive and far from definitive.
Dower is conducting groundbreaking research on menstrual cycles in collaboration with the Western Bulldogs, an Australian rules football club. Her work focuses on understanding how athletes can be supported in a team-based environment, considering the unique challenges posed by menstrual cycles.
Breaking the Stigma Around Menstrual Cycles in Sports
Despite advancements in sports science, there remains a stigma surrounding menstrual cycles that can hinder athletes from openly discussing its impact. Tallia Pulcino, a Bulldogs VFLW player, shares her experience of struggling with Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) and the challenges she faced in acknowledging her symptoms.
The Importance of Communication in Women’s Sports
Dower emphasizes the need for open communication about menstrual cycles in sports, as it can impact athletes’ performance and well-being. Research shows that female athletes feel more comfortable discussing these issues with other women, highlighting the importance of creating a supportive environment within teams.
Adapting Training Programs to Accommodate Menstrual Cycles
Ellie Bishop, another Bulldogs player, shares how training modifications based on menstrual cycles have made a significant difference in her performance. By acknowledging the unique experiences of each athlete, coaches can better support and empower female players to excel in their respective sports.
Empowering Female Athletes Through Education and Support
As the conversation around menstrual cycles in sports continues to evolve, Dower advocates for a more individualized approach to training that considers the unique needs of each athlete. By normalizing discussions about menstrual cycles and fostering open communication, teams can create a more inclusive and supportive environment for female athletes.