The effect of menstrual cycles on anaerobic performance in female athletes

This study aimed to investigate the effects of menstrual cycle phases on anaerobic performance in female athletes. The limited number of studies on this topic in the literature highlights the need to evaluate athletic performance levels in women during these periods and to understand the biological variables influencing these outcomes. A total of 29 experienced female athletes who were actively engaged in their respective sports participated in the study. Performance data were collected through tests conducted during different phases of the menstrual cycle (menstrual and luteal phases). Anthropometric measurements, vertical and horizontal jump tests, 10- and 20-meter sprint tests, as well as pediatric anaerobic sprint tests were used to assess performance parameters, and statistical comparisons were made between the phases. Additionally, pre- and post-test comparisons of power parameters were performed based on the data obtained from the pediatric anaerobic sprint tests. The findings indicated that certain phases of the menstrual cycle may lead to statistically significant differences in anaerobic performance. Periodic fluctuations in performance, particularly in high-intensity anaerobic activities, were observed as a result of hormonal changes during these phases. These results suggest that it is important for coaches to consider menstrual cycle phases when designing training programs for female athletes in order to maximize training efficiency. This study emphasizes the necessity of integrating menstrual cycle awareness into training plans to improve performance consistency and to anticipate potential variations in athletic output.