Menstrual Cycle Phase and Sport Performance

Author

• Emma SwartzFollow

Year of Award

2026

Document Type

Professional Paper

Degree Type

Master of Science (MS)

Degree Name

Integrative Physiology (Exercise Science option)

Department or School/College

Integrative Physiology and Athletic Training

Committee Chair

Charles L. Dumke

Commitee Members

Caitlin J. Zondlo, Josey K. Walker

Keywords

menstrual cycle, sport performance, luteal phase, follicular phase, aerobic performance, anaerobic performance

Subject Categories

Exercise Physiology | Exercise Science | Systems and Integrative Physiology

Abstract

The purpose of this review is to investigate the impact of menstrual cycle phase on sport performance in eumenorrheic female athletes and physically active females. Historically, exercise physiology research has focused on male participants, leading to a limited understanding of female-specific physiology and sport performance. To address this research gap, this paper reviewed the current literature on the effects of menstrual cycle phase on aerobic capacity, anaerobic performance, maximal strength, recovery, and psychological factors on sport performance. Overall, the evidence suggests that objective sport performance outcomes, such as maximal oxygen uptake, anaerobic power, and maximal strength, do not differ across menstrual cycle phases. Some studies reported differences in cardiorespiratory responses, recovery markers, and perceived exertion, but these outcomes were inconsistent. Studies on the psychological effects of menstrual cycle phase and sport performance showed that perceptual responses, including mood, motivation, symptom burden, and perceived readiness, may influence how performance is experienced during training and competition. Overall, the menstrual cycle phase does not appear to be a main determinant of sport performance outcomes in female athletes. The findings of this review suggest that coaches and practitioners should focus on individualized monitoring of athletes' menstrual symptoms, recovery, and perceived readiness to train to improve performance in female athletes, rather than on menstrual cycle phases.

Recommended Citation

Swartz, Emma, "Menstrual Cycle Phase and Sport Performance" (2026). Graduate Student Theses, Dissertations, & Professional Papers. 12659.
https://scholarworks.umt.edu/etd/12659