How to Deal With Your Period During Sports

Whether running after the ball in soccer or serving it up in tennis, sports can unleash your inner Serena Williams. And because you're fierce that way, it doesn't matter if you're playing sports professionally or with friends. Whatever the prize is, you always bring your A-game on. A couple of minor cuts? No sweat. A few scrapes? Def not an issue. 

But what if it's a full-on gush of red? The crimson wave can indeed flush out your fearlessness, what with its squad of PMS symptoms. But hey, it doesn't have to be that way. In fact, your period can even help you call the shots on game day. In this post, we'll talk about how to turn Auntie Flo into your BFF and how to deal with your period during sports. 

Winning ways to deal with your period

It's always a choice—so stay focused! Don't let your period make you lose your cool with these top tips on dealing with your period while playing sports. 

1. Sync it up with your monthly cycle. 

When the going gets tough, the tough get "friendly"—that is, with their period. Wouldn't it be better to just go with the flow, like literally?? Work smarter rather than harder, and you can do this by syncing with your monthly cycle. 

• Keep a period tracker to help you monitor your cycle. 

 There are monitoring apps that can help you understand your unique menstrual patterns. This way, you can stop stressing and start planning your activities around them. Note when you generally feel like you can conquer the world or when you're just out of whack. 

• Make your hormone fluctuations work for you. 

For instance, during the first half of your cycle, you enjoy a boost of estrogen that delivers high energy levels. So, you may want to train or compete during these optimal days. On the other hand, your estrogen goes on a roller coaster ride at halftime when you can experience an onslaught of PMS symptoms. So, you'll want to play it a bit easier at this point. 

• Listen to your body.

There's no one size fits all. Different women have different menstrual patterns and peculiarities. Pay attention to what your body tells you, and go for what's best for you. If something hurts, quit it and see your doctor. 

2. Nutrify! 

Now is not the time to dive into “cholesterrific” eats like high-carb potato chips and sugary treats. Come to think of it; these aren't good at any time. Yeah, we know it can be hard (food is life, after all). But just hold your thought for a moment there. Just imagine how your body can perform at its highest level when fueled up the right way. And we haven't even started on how cute you can look on the court, in the pool, or wherever you're competing!  

So, tell yourself, you got this—because you deserve to play, look, and feel great. Indulge in delicious balsamic salads with loads of leafy greens. Go nutty with hazelnuts, almonds, and walnuts. Indulge in raspberries, blueberries, and strawberries—and no, strawberry shortcakes don't count. 

3. Keep hydrating!  

Although downing water won't necessarily give you the ability to grow your arms and legs out, it sure can come close (at least, sort of). Staying hydrated can boost your blood flow, which means your organs and tissues (including those in your limbs) can get their supply of oxygen and nutrients to fix themselves up. Good ole H2O can also reduce menstrual pain, especially during the first few days of your period. It can also keep bloating and constipation at bay, two things you obviously don't want to worry about when you're crushing it on the court. 

4. Get some quality R&R. 

This may be one of the best ways to deal with your period during sports. Giving yourself some delicious TLC isn't only enjoyable but also much-needed. How so? 

When you don't get enough rest and relaxation during your period, this can disrupt your already out-of-whack hormones. So you tend to be crankier and even more anxious. Some quality R&R can also unleash brain chemicals called endorphins that lift your mood and help ease menstrual aches and pains for a first-rate performance. 

So stick to a bedtime routine, get enough Zzzs, indulge in body massages and spa treatments, or simply curl up in bed with a good read. And yes, don't sweat the small stuff. No athlete ever said, "I wish I had more stress hormones." 

5. Gear up!

The proper sports gear can spell the difference between winning and losing. Not having the right equipment and tools from the get-go is like going into battle with just a fanny pack. So tick off that checklist to ensure you've got everything covered, be it tennis gloves, soccer shin guards, or your all-sport water bottle. The perfect sports attire, like Ruby Love Athletics for swimming, tennis, running, and gymnastics, will also help you move more freely and confidently while slugging it out with your opponents—even when on your period.