Clinical trial Recruiting at 1 site Interventional Ages 18 to 35 Women only

Examining how the menstrual cycle affects exercise performance

Official title: The Impact of the Menstrual Cycle on Physical Exercise and Performance

Run by Karolinska Institutet · NCT05697263 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study tests how different phases of the menstrual cycle affect exercise performance in women who train hard to see if adjusting workouts can improve their fitness and reduce symptoms.

Quick facts

Study typeInterventional
Ages18 Years to 35 Years
SexWomen only
Enrollment111 (estimated)
SponsorKarolinska Institutet
Academic / other
Locations1 site (Stockholm)
StatusRecruiting
StartedAugust 1, 2023
Main results expectedJuly 2027
Study endsJuly 2027
Registry record updatedAugust 13, 2026
Trial IDNCT05697263 on ClinicalTrials.gov

Is this trial a fit for you?

Likely a good fit

Ideal candidates are women who exercise at least 3-4 times a week, have a regular menstrual cycle of 26-32 days, and are in good health.

Probably not a fit

Patients using hormonal contraceptives, those on regular medication, or with chronic diseases or recent injuries may not benefit from this study.

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This study investigates the impact of the menstrual cycle on physical exercise and athletic performance among women who regularly engage in high-level training. It aims to evaluate how periodizing exercise according to different phases of the menstrual cycle influences aerobic fitness, premenstrual symptoms, body composition, and muscle-related factors. The study employs a randomized, controlled design to ensure robust methodology and reliable results, addressing gaps in previous research on this topic.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide tailored exercise recommendations for women, enhancing their athletic performance and overall health.

How similar studies have gone: While there have been underpowered studies on this topic, this study aims to provide a more rigorous evaluation, making it a novel approach in the field.

Who can join: the full rules

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Women exercising at least 3-4 times a week on a high level
* Regular menstrual cycle with 26-32 cycle days.
* Fully healthy and be able to follow the training program.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Hormonal contraceptive users,
* Users of regular medication
* Chronic disease
* Past or present neurological disorder
* Recent musculoskeletal injury

Where it's running

  • Angelica Lindén Hirschberg
    Stockholm, Sweden
    Recruiting

Study contacts

Similar studies

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How to take part

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.