Episode 51: No Period, No Problem for the Gymnast? Not Quite

One of the biggest myths in the gymnastics world is that it’s “normal” for a gymnast to not get their period or to lose it…

All the time parents are told things like: 

 “Oh it’s normal for a gymnast to not have their period, they just workout too much”
 “She may need to quit gymnastics to get her period”
“It would be better for her to not have her period until after the Olympics”

All of these couldn’t be further from the truth. 

A female’s period is what is called the “fifth vital sign”; it’s an essential sign the body gives us that can indicate it’s getting enough nutrition to support health and longevity in the sport. 

In this episode you’ll learn: 

• What’s normal and what’s not for periods
• When to be concerned if your gymnast hasn’t had her period (or has lost it)
• Why birth control is a bad “bandaid” for a missing period
• How to support your gymnast’s health

Links & Resources 

• The Balanced Gymnast®  Program for level 5-10 female gymnasts 
• Podcast Episode 4: RED-S
• Connect with Christina on Instagram @the.gymnast.nutritionist or support@christinaandersonrdn.com