Psychophysiological Responses to High-Intensity Interval Training Exercise over Menstrual Cycle Phases: An...

Area of Science:

• Exercise Physiology
• Reproductive Endocrinology
• Sports Psychology

Background:

• Limited research exists on how the menstrual cycle influences psychophysiological responses to high-intensity interval training (HIIT).
• Understanding these variations is crucial for optimizing exercise programming for women.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the psychophysiological responses of healthy women to HIIT across different phases of the menstrual cycle.
• To identify potential phase-specific differences in exercise experience and outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Twenty-three physically active women completed a cycle ergometer HIIT session in their menstrual, follicular, and luteal phases.
• Psychophysiological measures including anxiety, mood, motivation, and menstrual distress were assessed at baseline, during, and post-exercise.
• Randomized order of menstrual phase participation was employed.

Main Results:

• Women reported increased pain, water retention, behavioral changes, and autonomic reactions during the menstrual phase compared to the follicular phase.
• Psychological responses to HIIT were poorer during the menstrual and luteal phases.
• Motivation to initiate HIIT was lower in the luteal and menstrual phases.
• HIIT significantly reduced depressive symptoms and improved motivation irrespective of menstrual phase.

Conclusions:

• The menstrual cycle significantly impacts psychophysiological responses to HIIT.
• HIIT demonstrates potential for improving motivation and depressive symptoms in women.
• Further research is warranted to explore HIIT's effects in women with clinical depression across the menstrual cycle.