American figure skater Amber Glenn spoke about the impact of menstruation on her performance during the 2026 Winter Olympics [1].
Glenn's openness highlights a systemic lack of preparation for female athletes regarding biological cycles. By discussing the physical and mental challenges of competing while menstruating, she aims to remove the stigma and encourage better medical support for women in elite sports [1, 2].
During the free skate program on Feb. 19, 2026, in Milan-Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy, Glenn competed while on her period [1]. Despite the challenges, she finished in fifth place [1]. "I have my period," Glenn said in an interview regarding her experience [1].
The timing of such biological events can create significant hurdles for athletes in precision sports. A kinesiologist interviewed by Radio-Canada said that menstruation is not always factored into the training and preparation of female athletes [2]. The expert said that these cycles can influence both concentration and fatigue levels [2].
For many athletes, the pressure to maintain a specific image in sports like figure skating often leads to silence regarding menstrual health. Glenn's decision to address the topic follows a growing movement to integrate menstrual tracking, and tailored training, into professional sports regimens to optimize performance [2].
While some athletes may experience minimal symptoms, others face debilitating cramps or hormonal shifts that can alter balance and stamina. The integration of kinesiology and sports science is now being used to analyze how these factors specifically affect the free skate and other high-intensity events [2].
“"I have my period."”
This conversation signals a shift toward 'female-first' sports science, moving away from treating the male body as the default athletic standard. By acknowledging that menstrual cycles affect fatigue and concentration, sports organizations may be pressured to adjust training loads and recovery protocols based on biological data rather than static schedules.
