Effects of menstrual cycle-based resistance training on female athletes' performance

Effects of Menstrual Cycle-based Undulating Periodized Resistance Training in Women's Neuromuscular Abilities

Not applicable Interventional Universite de La Reunion · NCT06679491

This study tests if resistance training that changes with the menstrual cycle can improve strength and performance in female athletes compared to those using birth control.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment60 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexFemale
SponsorUniversite de La Reunion Academic / other
Locations1 site (Le Tampon, France)
Trial IDNCT06679491 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial investigates how resistance training tailored to different phases of the menstrual cycle affects neuromuscular performance in female athletes. Participants will engage in a 13-week program with two training sessions per week, where the intensity of resistance training is adjusted based on their menstrual phase. The study compares the effects of training in natural menstrual cycle groups against a control group using oral contraceptives, focusing on outcomes such as knee extensor strength and muscle performance metrics. Neuromuscular assessments will be conducted before and after the intervention to evaluate the impact of the training protocols.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are recreationally active female athletes aged 18 and older with regular menstrual cycles.

Not a fit: Patients who may not benefit include those with irregular menstrual cycles or those not engaged in regular physical activity.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance training effectiveness and performance in female athletes by optimizing resistance training according to menstrual cycle phases.

How similar studies have performed: While there is limited research specifically on menstrual cycle-based resistance training, similar studies have shown that hormonal fluctuations can impact athletic performance, suggesting potential for success in this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Female athletes with natural menstrual cycles (eumenorrheic): Participants must have regular menstrual cycles lasting between 21 and 35 days, with at least 9 cycles per year.
* Women using a low-dose monophasic estrogen-progestin oral contraceptive.
* Age 18 or older: Participants must be legal adults.
* Body Mass Index (BMI) between 18 and 30 kg/m².
* No medical contraindications to high-level physical training or exercise.
* Physically active: Engages in at least 3 hours of physical activity per week.
* Informed consent: Provides written, informed consent to participate in the study.
* Affiliation with a social security system (if applicable by local regulations).

Exclusion Criteria:

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Where this trial is running

Le Tampon, France

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Menstrual CycleResistance TrainingNeuromuscular FunctionFemale AthleteWomen HealthOral Contraceptive PillMuscle StrenghtHormones
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.