W4D1 - THAT time a month

Disclaimer, if you are uncomfortable reading about women's periods, stop reading. Though I'll never understand why anyone would be uncomfortable about a part of nature affecting half the world's population and basically a sign of a well-functioning body.

My boyfriend is one of the people clicking the page close probably, he's one of those men that have been brainwashed into believing it's something icky and bad.

So I went to 'attempt' W4D1 today. I figured I would not be able to do it because my period started today. Basically on day one I'm doubled over in pain and tend to not be able to do much. I have in the past had to call in sick to work because the pain was unbearable.

Now this time, the pain wasn't all that bad to begin with. It was surprisingly mild. In my head the link to my exercise was made pretty quickly since it's one of the only things that has changed in my life. I did some research and wow the information was overwhelming. How I wish I had known a few years ago.

No one ever told me that exercise can help prevent menstruation symptons, not even my doctor who I have seen regularly with my PMS and menstruation problems. It has always been regular, but so incredibly painful! And long. I menstruate for 7-9 straight days. I'm kinda hoping this exercise won't just take away some of the pain, but maybe shorten the wole thing too.

Alright I sort of drifted off there.

The run went amazingly well. I paced myself during the first set of intervals. I was absolutely shocked when my podcast announced that the five minute interval was up! It didn't feel like it! And best of all, my cramps flared up a little during the first interval, but the actually completely faded for a good few hours after that!

The next set of intervals I even upped the pace a little.

I was nice and tired in a good way after I was done stretching. It felt good. It felt like an accomplishment.

If you would have asked me a month ago if I'd ever be able to run five straight minutes I would have laughed in your face. I did it though. I can't believe the progress and because of the progress it's easy to stay motivated and look forward to the next run. Because next run will go better again!

More positive side-effects of exercise for teh win!