Research

Hormonal

Menstrual cycle phase does not appreciably influence acute strength performance or chronic adaptations (strength/hypertrophy) to resistance exercise training in naturally cycling women.

Do not restrict your training volume, intensity, or frequency based on your menstrual cycle phase. The current scientific consensus indicates that hormonal fluctuations across the cycle do not significantly impact your ability to build strength or muscle. Focus on consistent, high-quality resistance training regardless of where you are in your cycle. If you experience menstrual symptoms that affect your well-being, adjust for comfort, not for perceived biological incapacity.

GoodRefutesHIGH confidence
it is premature to conclude that short-term fluctuations in reproductive hormones appreciably influence acute exercise performance or longer-term strength or hypertrophic adaptations to RET.
Lauren M. Colenso‐Semple et al. · Frontiers in Sports and Active Living · 2023

Why this rating

Based on an umbrella review of multiple systematic reviews and meta-analyses, though the authors note heterogeneity and methodological flaws in primary studies.

Source

Current evidence shows no influence of women's menstrual cycle phase on acute strength performance or adaptations to resistance exercise training

Lauren M. Colenso‐Semple et al. · Frontiers in Sports and Active Living · 2023

DOI 10.3389/fspor.2023.1054542

Meta-analysis · 5 studiesCited 147×
Read the paper
DOI resolved against Crossref · corpus check 2026-06-10

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