Coaching with Care: Understanding the Menstrual Cy...

Coaching with Care: Understanding the Menstrual Cycle in Female Athletics

Patience Muchemwa

Senior Reporter

In recent years, the conversation around female athletes and their unique physiological needs has gained momentum. The Engen Knockout Challenge, supported by Engen Sports, is leading the charge with a bold campaign that urges coaches to understand the menstrual cycle—not as a barrier to performance, but as a blueprint for smarter training, deeper empathy, and long-term athlete development.

A typical menstrual cycle spans four phases—menstrual, follicular, ovulation, and luteal—each marked by hormonal shifts that influence energy, focus, pain sensitivity, and recovery. During the menstrual and early follicular phases, estrogen and progesterone levels are low, which can lead to fatigue, increased pain sensitivity, and reduced concentration. Recognizing these patterns allows coaches to adapt training plans to match physiological readiness.

“It’s not just in their head—it’s normal,” the campaign emphasizes, challenging outdated stigmas and validating athletes’ lived experiences

Nutrition plays a pivotal role in supporting athletes through hormonal fluctuations. Iron-rich meals, hydration, and anti-inflammatory foods like leafy greens, berries, and omega-3s can help mitigate symptoms and maintain performance. Coaches are encouraged to promote cycle tracking as a tool for planning training intensity, rest, and recovery.

The campaign also highlights the importance of emotional support. A simple check-in—“How are you feeling today?”—can open the door to honest conversations. If an athlete feels off, the recommendation is to pivot: focus on technique, active recovery, or skill-building rather than pushing harder. This approach fosters trust and psychological safety, which are essential for long-term engagement in sport.

“Support isn’t lowering expectations—it’s leading with care.”

When athletes feel supported during their cycle, they’re more likely to stay in sport, build confidence, and perform consistently. This isn’t just good for the individual—it’s transformative for the team. By integrating menstrual health into coaching strategies, we move toward a more inclusive, informed, and high-performing sports culture.

The Engen Knockout Challenge’s message is clear: _It’s Her Moment._ By acknowledging and honoring the full player experience—including menstruation—coaches can unlock new levels of performance, resilience, and empowerment in female athletes.