4 Best Practices When Exercising With Endometriosis

Endometriosis, a disease in which tissue that normally lines the uterus develops on other body regions (such as the ovaries, intestines, or bladder) and sheds uncomfortably during your period, may make exercise difficult. Endorphins, or “feel good” chemicals released after exercise, may reduce pain, but not for everyone. “Exercising with endometriosis is a net positive,” says Amy Roskin, MD, a board-certified OB-GYN and Seven Starling’s chief medical officer. “Some workouts may cause pain,” she says. When endometriosis scar tissue develops, actions that entail traction, stretching, or tugging might aggravate discomfort. Now what? Dr. Roskin and other specialists suggest the following fitness recommendations for health and fun. 4 Best Practices When Exercising With Endometriosis Stick To Shorter Workouts “Exercise snacking”—multiple short workouts—is best. “With endometriosis, it’s normal for a high heart rate for a prolonged length of time to create a flare-up of unpleasant symptoms,” says Aly Giampolo, a certified fitness teacher, professional dancer, and co-founder of The Ness, a tiny trampoline exercise studio. The more intense or longer the exercise, the more stress on the body, which promotes muscular tenseness, spasms, inflammation, and discomfort. “Splitting your workout into shorter spurts and sprinkling it in here and there is a terrific...