Phases of the menstrual cycle, contraceptives and the production of strength and fatigue in Crossfit practitioners

Abstract

Background: Crossfit is a modality developed for the balanced training of strength, power and physical resistance, where the participation of women is increasing. The menstrual cycle (MC) causes hormonal variation, as do hormonal contraceptives. Aims: To evaluate and identify the production of muscle strength and the level of fatigue in different phases of the menstrual cycle in women who practice crossfit. Method: Selected healthy women, aged 18 to 40, who had a regular menstrual cycle or who use a continuous contraceptive method, such as a Mirena or Kyleena IUD or continuous OAC. Sample for convenience inside Crossfit boxes in the Vale dos Sinos region. Results: 10 women practitioners of Crossfit® participated. They performed isometric maximal muscle strength test on a digital dynamometer and a specific fatigue protocol, along with a visual analogue scale (VAS). Conclusion: There was no difference in the mean production of maximum isometric force or perception and level of muscle fatigue (p<0.05) between participants in different phases of the menstrual cycle and contraceptive methods.