The power of the menstrual cycle

GB Rowing Team Sport Scientist Sarah Moseley explains the menstrual cycle to help athletes and coaches understand the impact it can have on health and fitness goals

Many female athletes and their coaches admit to knowing relatively little about the menstrual cycle and how it can impact health, training and performance. It is often a subject that is avoided in conversation and dismissed as ‘that time of the month’. However, the menstrual cycle is part of a much bigger health and performance picture for female athletes.

For many athletes, the menstrual cycle is considered an inconvenience and something that is a barrier to training and performance. However, by understanding its importance we will quickly realise it is something we should embrace rather than resent.