Actor Kubbra Sait has shared a personal milestone after completing her first-ever Via Ferrata Summit while menstruating. Reflecting on the experience, the actress expressed gratitude for her body and its ability to adapt to physical challenges, offering a positive message about body awareness and self-acceptance.
In a social media post, Sait described how her body continued to respond and adjust as she took on the challenge. Her experience also brings attention to a common question among women who enjoy trekking, climbing and other outdoor activities: Is it safe to exercise during menstruation?
According to gynaecologist and IVF expert Dr Archana Dhawan Bajaj of Nurture Clinic, menstruation alone is not a reason to avoid strenuous physical activity. However, individual symptoms, general health and the demands of the activity all matter when deciding how much exercise is appropriate.
Kubbra Sait Expresses Gratitude for Her Body
Sharing her thoughts after completing the climb, Kubbra reflected on the significance of the experience and the way her body responded to the challenge.
“Big deal? Maybe. Maybe not. But sometimes I’m just so grateful for this body. For how beautifully it reacts, changes, adapts and somehow says, okay, boss, we’re doing this now,” she wrote.
Her words highlighted a sense of appreciation for the body’s ability to adjust to different circumstances. Completing her first Via Ferrata Summit while on her period made the achievement particularly personal, as she reflected on the connection between physical endurance and listening to her body.
The experience also challenges the assumption that menstruation automatically requires women to step away from physical activity. For many, exercise can remain part of their usual routine during their period, provided they feel well enough to participate safely.
Is It Safe to Trek or Climb During Your Period?
Menstruation does not automatically rule out demanding activities such as trekking, climbing or hiking. According to Dr Archana Dhawan Bajaj, women who are otherwise healthy and feel comfortable can generally continue exercising during their periods.
However, there is no single experience that applies to everyone. Some women may feel comfortable maintaining their usual activity levels, while others may experience cramps, fatigue, headaches or other symptoms that make strenuous exercise more difficult.
The intensity and duration of the activity also matter. A challenging climb requires concentration, coordination and physical stamina, so anyone planning such an outing should consider how they are feeling before setting off.
Rather than following a fixed rule about exercising during menstruation, women can adjust their activity according to their symptoms and overall well-being.
Can Menstruation Affect Exercise Performance?
Changes throughout the menstrual cycle can influence how some women feel during exercise. Energy levels, sleep, mood and the perception of physical effort may vary, while menstrual symptoms can make certain activities less comfortable.
Dr Bajaj noted that fatigue, cramps, headaches and reduced motivation can temporarily affect endurance or exercise performance for some women.
However, menstruation does not necessarily mean a loss of strength or athletic ability. Individual responses vary, and some women may notice very little difference in their performance.
For activities such as climbing, where balance, concentration and sound decision-making are essential, it is particularly important to recognise how symptoms are affecting the body. Adjusting the pace or choosing a less demanding route may be sensible if discomfort or fatigue becomes noticeable.
What Should Women Keep in Mind Before a Climb?
Preparation can make physically demanding activities more manageable during menstruation. Women planning a trek or climb can take several practical steps to support their comfort and safety.
Stay hydrated. Drink fluids regularly, particularly during prolonged activity or in hot weather. Dehydration can affect how the body feels and performs.
Eat adequately. Have balanced meals and appropriate snacks to help maintain energy during a demanding outing. Long climbs require preparation beyond simply managing menstrual symptoms.
Carry sufficient menstrual products. Pack the products you normally use, along with spares and suitable disposal supplies where needed. Choose options that are comfortable and practical for the duration of the activity.
Wear comfortable clothing. Clothing that allows unrestricted movement and helps you manage sweat and changing weather can improve comfort during a climb.
Plan for rest and flexibility. Allow time for breaks and be prepared to slow down, change plans or stop if symptoms become difficult to manage.
Assess the demands of the route. Via Ferrata climbing and other exposed mountain activities require attention to safety equipment, route conditions and physical readiness. Menstruation does not remove the need to follow standard climbing precautions.
As Dr Bajaj emphasised, adequate fluids and nutrition are especially important during climbing because dehydration and low energy can affect concentration and safety.
When Should You Stop Exercising During Your Period?
Although many women can exercise during menstruation, certain symptoms should not be ignored, especially during a strenuous outdoor activity.
Warning signs include unusually heavy bleeding, severe or worsening cramps, dizziness, fainting, breathlessness, blurred vision, marked weakness or extreme fatigue. If these symptoms occur, stop the activity, move to a safe place and seek assistance as needed.
Rest and hydration may help in some circumstances, but they should not replace medical assessment when symptoms are severe or persistent. Fainting, significant breathlessness or other serious symptoms warrant prompt medical attention.
Recurring heavy bleeding or unusually severe menstrual pain should also be discussed with a healthcare professional, as these symptoms can sometimes be associated with conditions that require evaluation.
Women with known medical conditions or a history of significant menstrual symptoms may benefit from discussing strenuous exercise plans with their clinician before undertaking a demanding climb.
Kubbra Sait’s Experience Highlights the Importance of Body Awareness
Kubbra Sait’s first Via Ferrata Summit while on her period offers a personal example of continuing with a physical challenge while appreciating the body’s ability to adapt. Her reflection also opens up a broader conversation about menstruation and physical activity.
The key takeaway is not that every woman should push through discomfort, but that periods do not automatically have to prevent exercise. Understanding personal symptoms, preparing appropriately and recognising when to stop are important parts of making informed decisions.
For women who enjoy trekking, climbing or fitness activities, listening to their bodies can help them find an approach that balances their goals with comfort and safety.
