Led by strength and conditioning coach Seema Chopra, the girls were led through each phase of the menstrual cycle, explaining what happens and how they can influence physical capability. For example, while athletes often feel a peak in strength during the follicular phase, menstruation may require a more intuitive approach to movement, such as yoga or adapted training loads.
A central theme of the session was the importance of understanding your cycle and the necessity of tracking symptoms and maintaining an open dialogue on this, with coaches, teammates, and family. She emphasised that understanding your strengths and ability throughout the month is a key component of elite training, and that the menstrual cycle should never be a taboo subject.
By gaining a deeper understanding of the menstrual cycle, pupils can learn to better adapt their training and nutrition to support their bodies. This knowledge is helpful beyond athletic success, impact of coordination, strength and ability to complete complex tasks, but also for navigating everyday life with confidence.
Seema also took the time to break down common myths and misconceptions, such as the differences between a withdrawal bleed and natural period, while on the contraceptive pill, highlighting how many athletes now opt to train alongside their natural cycles, rather than suppressing them. Crucially, she reframed the period not as an inconvenience, but as a vital sign that the body is in balance and properly fuelled.
Sharing some key tips from herself and her network, Seema highlights her key tips for managing your cycle, especially alongside training.
- Discuss your symptoms and cycle openly with those around you
- Track your cycle to better understand your own unique patterns and symptoms
- Fuel good to feel good, prioritise nourishing your body correctly
- Embrace it, your cycle is something to celebrate not be ashamed of
The session concluded with a vibrant Q&A, and as always, our girls were curious and confident, with their inquiries covering everything from managing pain to recognising when to see a GP and tips for getting the right amount of sleep.
It was clear that this talk was insightful for all and it was inspiring to see our girls get so involved in discussing ‘taboo’ topics. By providing them with these tools, we ensure they can manage their health and sporting ambitions with both knowledge and pride.