With the help of my new "Period Tracker App", I've been notified I have 3 days left. Crap, no wonder my kids can't seam to do anything right. So, Aunt Flow is coming to visit. Oh, POOOO!. Well, that explains why I feel my workouts have done nothing for me lately and my kids think I'm mean and off my rocker. My jeans feel tighter and Paleo is going to pot...candy is calling my name.
But, there is hope. Knowledge is power! Actually, now that I've been warned, I actually feel better. Well... a little anyway.
OK, so here is the skinny on PMS and exercise. Yes, there is great insight that is very helpful. Besides the usual: avoid salty foods, drink lots of water, yes exercise, rest, meditate, and take your vitamins and supplements.
There is a science to this madness;) I'll give you a kiss (Keepin It Simple Sweetie).
1- When you are actually menstruating (bleeding 1-7 days), when all you wanna do is wear baggy sweatpants, eat crappy, and sit around. You have the opportunity (if you choose to take it) to burn 30% more calories. So, besides sticking to healthy clean eating, go out & do something. Even if you "half ass" a usually workout, it will practically be like a normal workout. Yea!
2- Once you have stopped (menstruating) and you are going into the second half of you follicular phase, this is the time to kick it up. Meaning go kick some serious booty. Lift heavier, run faster, sweat harder, push yourself. Use all that extra Progesterone that is building up!!!
3- As you begin your Luteal Phase (just after ovulation) you might notice your cravings are not as bad as a couple weeks ago. Well, this is the best time recommended to up the calorie intake a bit. Besides, resetting your metabolism, you wont have a tendency to go overboard.
4- At the end of your Luteal Phase when you are starting to feel crabby, bloated and less like working out... again this is when you are burning 30% more calories. So, go for it. Work out with a friend. Listen to your favorite music.
Keep moving and make the most of what mother nature has to offer.
Ok, I hope this wasn't to complicated. But, is does help me during tough times. Who am I kidding, during "hell week". You are my sista from another Mista, so I feel the need to share and help you out. If you happen to be that cool boyfriend or hubby reading this...more power to ya man.
Its crazy that your body can withstand more "pain" the second phase. I guess at this time you will REALLY need to kick our booty.
ReplyDeleteThat is soooo right.
ReplyDeleteAlso, NOTE CORRECTION: When I stated in part 2 " Use all that extra Progesterone that is building up!!!" That statement should actually be in Part 1 & 4.
Part 2 is Amp it up because hormones are most stable.
TY