Could Your Period Affect Your Cross-Training?

NCAA runner turned high school coach Hillary Kigar has an answer for all things training! 

Q: I like to mix yoga into my running schedule, but I’ve heard I shouldn’t perform inverted poses during menstruation. Why not? Are there running exercises I should avoid as well?

There has been no research that shows that inversions (aka poses that require your heart to be higher than your head) have a negative effect on the female body during menstruation. As with any kind of exercise, it is important that you take ownership over your yoga practice and stay in tune with your body and what feels best.

If you feel very fatigued while menstruating, you might want to avoid inversions or other poses that are more strenuous, but you may find the inverted poses to be restorative and invigorating. The female body is strong and capable, no matter the time of the month, so don’t shy away from your normal training—yoga, running or otherwise—just because Aunt Flo is in town! Keep a positive mindset and remember to be flexible and make modifications if you feel as if you need to adjust.

Have a question for Coach Kigar? Email editorial@womensrunning.com or tweet @womensrunning with the hashtag #AsktheCoach.