7 Tips for Running While on Your Period

Photos by Filles Garcons Photography.

This post is sponsored by U by Kotex® FITNESS* and encourages you not to let anything get in the way of your progress – period or not, you can PR. All thoughts and opinions are my own.”

When I'm coaching and leading Runstreet art runs, I hear women talk about their periods as an obstacle preventing them from running. What many people don't realize is that a run can actually relieve period symptoms. It doesn't have to get in the way of your workout routine!

In addition to helping alleviate bloating and headaches associated with having a period, running can also be a great mood booster, provides stress relief and can help you stay in tune with your body. It’s so important to keep moving, no matter what time of the month it is. Here are my tips for running on your period: 

1. Stay hydrated

It's always important to hydrate while running, but even more so when you're on your period and losing extra fluid. A good general rule of thumb is to drink at least one 8 oz. serving of water per mile you run, in addition to your normal water intake. 

2. Rest well

Make sure you get enough sleep and take a minimum of one rest day each week so your body can rebuild and repair before the next run.  

3. Eat healthy

Make sure to include plenty of fresh, whole foods in your diet so your body has all the nutrients it needs to keep running smoothly. Eating healthy and limiting your salt intake can help you feel less bloated on your period too.

4. Breathe naturally

When you're running, let your body breathe naturally, as it is already tuned into the best methods to get oxygen to your muscles. Don't restrict your breathing by breathing only through your nose, as this limits the amount of oxygen you take in. Allow yourself to breathe through your mouth as much as you need to, increasing your oxygen intake.

5. Stretch. 

Do dynamic stretches to help warm up for your run. Dynamic stretches include motion and help get your muscles primed to run. They can also help alleviate period cramps! 

6. Find the right period products. 

I recently tried new U by Kotex® FITNESS* products and they helped me feel more comfortable running on my period. The line was made specifically for bodies in motion to accommodate people trying to stay active while on their period. My go-to is the U by Kotex® FITNESS* Tampons with a plastic FITPAK* meant to protect your protection. The case is super small, making it easy to stash in running pants. You can sample U by Kotex® FITNESS* pads, tampons and liners for free here.

7. Run with friends. 

Join a running group or event, and you'll have great company and an extra boost of motivation. Running with others can make it more fun and keep you accountable, even when you're on your period.

Thanks for reading and be sure to check out my @UbyKotex Instagram takeover for more running tips!