Do premenstrual symptoms affect athletic performance?

Abstract: Premenstrual symptoms and menstrual cycle-related changes have received limited attention in sport. This feasibility-oriented proof-of-concept (PoC) study examined the influence of premenstrual symptoms on psychological variables and athletic performance and evaluated the feasibility and acceptance of the study procedures. The study further aimed to identify initial theory-driven indications. A total of 47 regularly menstruating recreational and competitive athletes completed questionnaires assessing premenstrual symptoms, perceived stress, anxiety, and competitive anxiety. A subsample ( n = 18) additionally provided repeated measures of recovery–strain status and standing long jump performance across three menstrual cycle phases. Premenstrual symptoms correlated significantly with higher perceived stress, anxiety, and competitive anxiety (dimension worry). Recovery, strain, and jump performance varied significantly across the menstrual cycle, with greater recovery and performance in the ovulatory phase. Premenstrual symptoms moderated changes in strain. No significant differences emerged based on competitive participation. These findings highlight the relevance of menstrual cycle dynamics for psychological and physical functioning in sport and support a larger confirmatory study.

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