Original Article: JRCRS. 2026:14(2): 98-104
7-Physical Activity during the Follicular Phase versus the Luteal Phase of the Menstrual Cycle among Eumenorrheic Females: A Cross-Sectional Study
Arooj Fatima1, Mehwish Khalid2, Hassan Bin Akram3, Zil e Huma4
1 4 Physical Therapist, Lahore College of Physical Therapy, Lahore, Pakistan
2 Assistant Professor, Lahore University of Biological and Applied Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan
3 Clinical Manager, Ghurki Trust and Teaching Hospital, Lahore, Pakistan
Read Full-Text Full-Text PDF DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.53389/JRCRS.2026140207
ABSTRACT:
Background: Fluctuations of hormones in the luteal and follicular phases of eumenorrheic women affect their physical activities in various aspects. Studies on these effects in eumenorrheic females, who experience regular menstrual cycles, remain limited. This study evaluates physical activity across these phases, contributing to personalized exercise recommendations and improved health outcomes.
Objective: To measure physical activity during the follicular phase vs the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle in eumenorrheic females.
Methodology: The research was a cross-sectional comparative study that assessed physical activity during the follicular and luteal phases of the menstrual cycle. The study included 40 women who had regular menstrual cycles, aged from 18 to 24. A non-probability purposive sampling technique was used. Physical activity measurement used the short version of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ-SF). Data analysis was conducted with SPSS version 26. The study variables were reported using descriptive statistics, including tables, graphs, and percentages.
Results: The comparison of the mean and standard deviation of the follicular phase and luteal phase was done. Studies revealed that participants achieved an average of 1147.98 total METS during the follicular phase with a SD of 14. 12, yet displayed an average total METS of 912.0375 along with an SD of 11.23 during the luteal phase.
Conclusion: The physical activity levels of eumenorrheic females were significantly higher during the follicular phase than during the luteal phase.
Keywords: Eumenorrheic, Follicular phase, Luteal phase, Menstrual cycle, Physical activity