Period. Power. Deadlifts

Girl, I totally get it – that feeling when your uterus decides to throw a full-blown party, and all you want to do is curl up in bed! But then there's that inner voice, the one that says, 'Weights gotta move!' It’s exactly what I felt going for those 230 and 240-pound deadlifts. It's tough, but staying active can actually be a huge part of 'period recovery' and feeling better overall. So, for all my fellow queens pushing through their cycles, here are my go-to tips to help you recover and still feel strong: First up, hydration and nutrition are your best friends. Seriously, chugging water like it's going out of style helps with bloating and fatigue. And fuel your body with nutrient-dense foods! Think leafy greens for iron, bananas or avocados for potassium, and dark chocolate (yes, chocolate!) for magnesium. These can really help combat those period-related energy dips and muscle cramps. I know when I'm aiming for big lifts, like when I was repping 230, I need every bit of energy I can get, and proper fuel makes a world of difference. Next, and this is a big one: listen to your body, but don't let it completely sideline you. There's a fine line between needing rest and pushing through safely. Some days, hitting a new PR like when I went for 240 might feel impossible, and that’s okay. Maybe it’s a day for lighter weights, focusing on form, or swapping a heavy session for a brisk walk or some yoga. The goal isn't to punish yourself, but to maintain consistency and gentle movement, which often aids circulation and eases discomfort. Pain management is key! A warm bath, a heating pad on your lower back or tummy, and some gentle stretching can be lifesavers. Sometimes, over-the-counter pain relievers are necessary, and there's no shame in that. Finding what works for your body to reduce discomfort will make staying active so much more manageable. Don't forget about active recovery and quality sleep. Light activities like walking, cycling, or swimming can actually help reduce cramps by increasing blood flow. And sleep? It’s non-negotiable. Your body is working extra hard during your period, so give it the rest it deserves. This isn’t a time to skimp on those Zs. Finally, track your cycle! Knowing when your period is coming and understanding how your body typically responds during different phases can help you plan your workouts and recovery strategies. You might find you have more energy during your follicular phase and need to dial it back a bit during your luteal phase or the first few days of your period. Remember, every body is different, but these tips have really helped me stay on track and maintain my strength, even on days when I feel like my uterus is waging war. You're strong, you're capable, and you can absolutely conquer your workouts, even when your period tries to tell you otherwise!