Training based on menstrual cycle phases
Investigating the Effects of Menstrual Cycle Phase Based Training on Muscle Strength and Hypertrophy
This study tests how different phases of the menstrual cycle affect strength training results in women to see if timing their workouts can lead to better health outcomes.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 24 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 30 Years |
| Sex | Female |
| Sponsor | McMaster University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Hamilton, Ontario) |
| Trial ID | NCT05936424 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates how different phases of the menstrual cycle affect resistance exercise training adaptations in women. Participants will track their menstrual cycles and undergo unilateral resistance training, with their legs assigned to one of four groups: non-exercise control, exercise control, follicular-based training, or luteal-based training. The training volume will vary based on the menstrual cycle phase, and muscle biopsies will be taken to assess changes in muscle fiber characteristics. The goal is to enhance understanding of female physiology in exercise and improve health outcomes for women.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are healthy women aged 18-30 with regular menstrual cycles who are not using hormonal contraceptives.
Not a fit: Patients who smoke, have certain medical conditions, or are currently pregnant may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to more effective resistance training programs tailored to women's menstrual cycles, improving their fitness and health outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: While there is limited research specifically on menstrual cycle-based training, studies on sex differences in exercise physiology suggest potential benefits, making this approach novel yet promising.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Women, between the ages of 18 - 30 years (inclusive) * Have a body mass index (BMI) between 18-35 kg·m2 (inclusive) * Be in general good health as assessed by a general health questionnaire * Non-smoking * Regular menstrual cycle (21-35 days, inclusive) * Not using hormonal contraceptives * Willing and able to provide informed consent Exclusion Criteria: * Use of tobacco or related products. * Ineligible to participate in physical activity based on get active questionnaire (GAQ) * Any concurrent medical, orthopedic, or psychiatric condition that, in the opinion of the Investigator, would compromise his/her ability to comply with the study requirements. * Current illnesses which could interfere with the study (e.g. prolonged severe diarrhea, regurgitation, difficulty swallowing) * Use of hormonal contraceptives * Currently pregnant * Training more than 3x/week for the past 6 months. * Have any electronic medical or metal implants * A history of neuromuscular disorders or muscle/bone wasting diseases * The use of any medications known to affect protein metabolism (glucocorticoids, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication, or prescription strength acne medication, etc.) * A (family) history of thrombosis * The use of anticoagulant medications * Excessive alcohol consumption (\>21 units/wk) * History of bleeding diathesis, platelet or coagulation disorders, or antiplatelet/anticoagulation therapy
Where this trial is running
Hamilton, Ontario
- Exercise Metabolism Research Laboratory, McMaster Univeristy — Hamilton, Ontario, Canada (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Stuart Phillips
- Email: phillis@mcmaster.ca
- Phone: 9058704650
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.