Menstrual Cycle PhaseMC-EIMDNCT07322874
Menstrual Cycle and Exercise-induced Muscle Damage
A study testing Exercise during follicular phase and Exercise during luteal phase in people with Menstrual Cycle Phase, run by Chariklia K. Deli at 1 site in Greece.
Trial summary
The aim of the study is to investigate the effect of the different menstrual cycle phases on the recovery from exercise-induced muscle injury in eumenorrheic women. For this purpose, in a cross-over, randomized study, at least 10 healthy eumenorrheic women aged 18-35 years will participate. Read more about this study
- Who is it for?
- Ages 18 to 40 years, women onlyHealthy volunteers can take part
- Conditions the study is for
- Menstrual Cycle Phase
- What is being tested?
- Exercise during follicular phase and Exercise during luteal phase
- Could I receive a placebo?
- No, everyone receives an active treatment
- How many people
- 15 participants
- Where
- 1 siteGreece
- Study dates
- 1 Mar 2025to 30 Dec 2025
- Phase
- Interventional
- Are there results?
- None posted in the registry
Key requirements
Who can take part, as listed by the sponsor. Only the study team can confirm whether you are eligible, so take this list to your doctor.
- Ages 18 to 40 years
- Women only
- Healthy volunteers accepted
- Adult
Who may be able to join
- Physically active subjects (VO2max ≥35ml/kg/min)
- Absence of musculoskeletal injury (≥6 months)
- Abstinence from the use of ergogenic supplements (≥1 month)
- Abstinence from anti-inflammatory drugs (≥1 month)
- Abstinence from participating in exercise with eccentric content for at least 7 days before exercise
- Abstinence from alcohol and energy drinks before exercise
Who cannot join
- Recent history of musculoskeletal injury (<6 months)
- Use of ergogenic performance supplements (<1 month)
- Taking anti-inflammatory drugs (<1 month)
- Participation in exercise with eccentric content in the previous 7 days before exercise
- Consumption of alcohol and energy drinks before exercise
Trial locations and contacts
1 site in 1 country.
Greece1 site
Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, University of Thessaly
Trikala, Thessaly, 42100
About this study
Official title: The Effect of Menstrual Cycle on Exercise-induced Muscle Damage
The aim of the study is to investigate the effect of the different menstrual cycle phases on the recovery from exercise-induced muscle injury in eumenorrheic women. For this purpose, in a cross-over, randomized study, at least 10 healthy eumenorrheic women aged 18-35 years will participate. In a random order, the participants will perform 45 min downhill (-15% slope) running on a treadmill at 70% HRmax followed by a maximal time-trial (95% HRmax) to exhaustion: i) during the follicular phase and ii) during the luteal phase. Before the exercise protocol, as well as at 24 h, 48 h and 72 h following exercise, complete blood count, delayed onset of muscle soreness (DOMS), creatine kinase activity, countermovement jump, isometric, concentric and eccentric strength of knee extensors and knee flexors, will be assessed. In addition, lactic acid concentration will be assessed before and immediately following exercise, and DOMS will be assessed immediately after the end of exercise. Following a washout period of ≥28 days (depending on the length of the menstrual cycle), participants will repeat the exact same procedure for the remaining phase of the menstrual cycle.
Read the detailed description
Research in the field of athletic training and rehabilitation, has traditionally focused on men, ignoring the physiological differences between sexes that may significantly affect athletic performance and recovery following exercise-induced muscle damage (EIMD). According to recent reviews of research in sports and exercise medicine, female representation is particularly limited, with only 4% - 13% of studies including women [1]. However, the number of females' participation in regular exercise and sports constantly increases, therefore it is imperative to define EIMD in women.
Except for being limited, most of the existing studies in women have been conducted during the early follicular phase of the cycle, when estrogen and progesterone levels are low, so that women's hormonal profile resembles that of men [2], in order to avoid any fluctuations [3]. However, this approach limits our understanding of the effects of the other phases of the cycle, such as the luteal phase, on performance and exercise-induced inflammation, and thus on women's ability to train and perform.
Although limited, some data suggest the influence of different phases of the menstrual cycle on both performance and exercise-induced muscle injury. For example, women's thermoregulatory levels are higher during the luteal phase of the cycle, which may affect their cardiovascular performance and endurance [4]. Similar data suggest that hormonal fluctuations may also affect recovery from EIMD [5]. Indicatively, the concentration of CK and IL-6 24 h and 72 h following 90 min of continuous running at 70% of VO2max was higher during the follicular phase [6].
Considering the above, research regarding the effect of the different phases of the menstrual cycle on performance and EIMD, it is crucial for the effective design of individualized training programs depending on the phase of the menstrual cycle, to improve performance and avoid injuries in women.
The aim of the study is to investigate the effect of the different menstrual cycle phases on the recovery from EIMD in eumenorrheic women.
According to an initial power analysis performed (probability error: 0.05, power: 0.80), a number of 8-10 individuals is required in order to identify statistically significant differences. Therefore, at least 10 participants will be included in the present study.
The design of the present study is cross-over, randomized and will be conducted in two cycles. The participants, after being informed about the study, as well as the benefits and potential risks, will sign an informed consent for participation in the study. Before the initiation of the data collection, familiarization of the participants with the assessment tests and the exercise protocol at low intensity, will precede. Also, the participants will provide a 7-days diet recall before their participation in the first experimental condition. Subsequently, baseline measurements will be performed at the Biochemistry, Physiology and Exercise Nutrition Laboratory (SmArT Lab), Department of Physical Education and Sports, University of Thessaly: anthropometric characteristics (body height, body mass, body mass index), body composition (body fat percentage, lean body mass, fat mass, bone density), aerobic capacity (VO2max). Subsequently, in a random order, the participants will perform 45 min of submaximal (at 70% HRmax) downhill (-15%) running on a treadmill followed by a maximal (95% HRmax) time-trial to exhaustion: i) during the follicular phase and ii) during the luteal phase. The randomization of the menstrual cycle phases will be done by a random integer sets generator, available online (Random.org). Before the exercise protocol, as well as 24 h, 48 h and 72 h following exercise, complete blood count (CBC), exercise-induced muscle injury [delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS), creatine kinase (CK) activity] and muscle performance [(countermovement jump (CMJ), isometric, concentric and eccentric strength of knee extensors and knee flexors)] will be assessed. In addition, metabolism (lactic acid) will be assessed before and immediately following exercise, and DOMS will be assessed immediately after the end of exercise. Following a washout period of ≥28 days (depending on the length of the menstrual cycle), participants will repeat the exact same procedure for the remaining phase of the menstrual cycle.
- Conditions
- Menstrual Cycle Phase
- Being tested
- Exercise during follicular phase, Exercise during luteal phase
- Keywords
- menstrual cycle, follicular phase, luteal phase, exercise-induced muscle damage, muscle performance, muscle soreness
- Medical subject headings
- Myalgia
What participants receive
What participants receive. In a randomised study each person is assigned to one group by chance.
Exercise during follicular phaseOther
The participants will perform downhill running (-15% slope) on a treadmill at 70% of HRmax followed by running on a horizontal level (0% slope) at 95% HRmax until exhaustion, during the follicular phase
Exercise during luteal phaseOther
The participants will perform downhill running (-15% slope) on a treadmill at 70% of HRmax followed by running on a horizontal level (0% slope) at 95% HRmax until exhaustion, during the luteal phase
| Study group | Role | What they receive |
|---|---|---|
| Follicular phase | Experimental | The participants will perform downhill running (-15% slope) on a treadmill at 70% of HRmax followed by running on a horizontal level (0% slope) at 95% HRmax until exhaustion, during the follicular phase Receives: Other: Exercise during follicular phase |
| Luteal phase | Experimental | The participants will perform downhill running (-15% slope) on a treadmill at 70% of HRmax followed by running on a horizontal level (0% slope) at 95% HRmax until exhaustion, during the luteal phase Receives: Other: Exercise during luteal phase |
What is being measured
The primary outcome is the main question the study is designed to answer.
Changes in Creatine kinase (CK) activity
CK activity will be measured in plasma using a Clinical Chemistry Analyzer with commercially available kits.
Measured: At baseline (pre), post-, 24 hours post-, 48 hours post-, 72 hours post-trial
Changes in delayed onset of muscle soreness (DOMS)
DOMS of knee extensors, knee flexors, gluteal and gastrocnemius muscles of both lower extremities will be measured during palpation of the muscle belly and the distal region after performing three repetitions of a full squat.
Measured: At baseline (pre), post-, 24 hours post-, 48 hours post-, 72 hours post-tria
Changes in blood lactate concentration
Lactate concentration will be measured in capillary blood with a hand-portable analyzer
Measured: At baseline (pre), 4 minutes post-exercise
Changes in countermovement jump (CMJ) height
CMJ height will be measured with an optical system. Participants will perform 3 maximal CMJ jumps and the best effort will be recorded
Measured: At baseline (pre), 24 hours post-, 48 hours post-, 72 hours post-exercise
Changes in isokinetic strength of knee extensors (KE) and knee flexors (KF)
Isometric, concentric and eccentric peak torque of the KE and KF of both limbs will be assessed on an isokinetic dynamometer
Measured: At baseline (pre), 24 hours post-, 48 hours post-, 72 hours post-exercise
Changes in complete blood count (CBC)
CBC (white blood cells, erythrocytes, platelets) will be measured in an hematological analyzer with commercially available reagents
Measured: At baseline (pre), 24 hours post-, 48 hours post-, 72 hours post-exercise
Secondary outcomes (7)
Differences in Estradiol concentration between trials
Estradiol concentration will be measured in an automated analyzer with commercially available kits
Measured: At late-follicular and mid-luteal phase (according to each participant's menstrual cycle length), before exercise
Differences in Progesterone concentration between trials
Progesterone concentration will be measured in an automated analyzer with commercially available kits
Measured: At late-follicular and mid-luteal phase (according to each participant's menstrual cycle length), before exercise
Body weight
Body weight will be measured on a beam balance with stadiometer
Measured: At late-follicular and mid-luteal phase (according to each participant's menstrual cycle length), before exercise
Body height
Body height will be measured on a beam balance with stadiometer
Measured: At late-follicular and mid-luteal phase (according to each participant's menstrual cycle length), before exercise
Body mass index (BMI)
BMI will be calculated from the ratio of body mass/ body height squared
Measured: At late-follicular and mid-luteal phase (according to each participant's menstrual cycle length), before exercise
Body fat
Body fat will be measured via bioelectrical impedance
Measured: At late-follicular and mid-luteal phase (according to each participant's menstrual cycle length), before exercise
Dietary intake
Dietary intake will be assessed using 7-day diet recalls
Measured: At baseline
Timeline
From the start of the study to its completion; the mark is today. Estimated dates are the sponsor’s plan.
- First posted7 Jan 2026
- Study start1 Mar 2025
- Primary completion30 Dec 2025
- Study completion30 Dec 2025
Resources
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govThe registry entry this page is built from, with its full change history.
- Publications (6)Papers the sponsor has linked to this study.
- Other trials for Menstrual Cycle PhaseStudies of the same condition, open and under way.
- What the trial phases meanHow a treatment moves from first tests in people to approval.
More details
For doctors and researchers: how the study is designed, who runs it, and its registry IDs.
Study design
- Study type
- Interventional
- Phase
- Phase N/A
- Primary purpose
- Screening
- Allocation
- Randomised
- Intervention model
- Crossover
- Masking
- None (open label)
- Enrolment
- 15 participants (actual)
Sponsor and investigators
- Lead sponsor
- Chariklia K. Deli
- Sponsor type
- University, hospital or other
- Responsible party
- Sponsor-investigator, Chariklia K. Deli, University of Thessaly
- Investigators
- Chariklia K Deli, Associate Professor, MSc, PhD, Principal investigator, University of Thessaly
IDs, dates and publications
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07322874
- Sponsor's protocol ID
- Menstrual Cycle - EIMD
- Acronym
- MC-EIMD
- Status last verified
- Feb 2026
- First submitted
- 7 Dec 2025
- Last updated
- 3 Feb 2026
- Results posted
- No
- Data monitoring committee
- No
- FDA-regulated drug
- No
- FDA-regulated device
- No
- Individual data sharing
- No
Publications
Roepstorff C, Steffensen CH, Madsen M, Stallknecht B, Kanstrup IL, Richter EA, Kiens B. Gender differences in substrate utilization during submaximal exercise in endurance-trained subjects. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab. 2002 Feb;282(2):E435-47. doi: 10.1152/ajpendo.00266.2001.
PubMed 11788377Romero-Parra N, Cupeiro R, Alfaro-Magallanes VM, Rael B, Rubio-Arias JA, Peinado AB, Benito PJ; IronFEMME Study Group. Exercise-Induced Muscle Damage During the Menstrual Cycle: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Strength Cond Res. 2021 Feb 1;35(2):549-561. doi: 10.1519/JSC.0000000000003878.
PubMed 33201156Ruby BC, Coggan AR, Zderic TW. Gender differences in glucose kinetics and substrate oxidation during exercise near the lactate threshold. J Appl Physiol (1985). 2002 Mar;92(3):1125-32. doi: 10.1152/japplphysiol.00296.2001.
PubMed 11842049Oosthuyse T, Strauss JA, Hackney AC. Understanding the female athlete: molecular mechanisms underpinning menstrual phase differences in exercise metabolism. Eur J Appl Physiol. 2023 Mar;123(3):423-450. doi: 10.1007/s00421-022-05090-3. Epub 2022 Nov 19.
PubMed 36402915D'Eon TM, Sharoff C, Chipkin SR, Grow D, Ruby BC, Braun B. Regulation of exercise carbohydrate metabolism by estrogen and progesterone in women. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab. 2002 Nov;283(5):E1046-55. doi: 10.1152/ajpendo.00271.2002.
PubMed 12376334Ose BM, Eisenhauer J, Roepe I, Herda AA, Vopat BG, Vopat LM. Where Are All the Female Participants in Sports and Exercise Medicine Research? A Decade Later. Am J Sports Med. 2025 Jul;53(8):2022-2028. doi: 10.1177/03635465241278350. Epub 2025 Jan 9.
PubMed 39780766
Study at a glance
From the registry record, last updated by the sponsor on 3 Feb 2026. Recruitment status is as the sponsor reported it: confirm with the study team.
- Official title
- The Effect of Menstrual Cycle on Exercise-induced Muscle Damage
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07322874
- Acronym / sponsor ID
- MC-EIMD / Menstrual Cycle - EIMD
- Conditions
- Menstrual Cycle Phase
- Keywords
- menstrual cycle, follicular phase, luteal phase, exercise-induced muscle damage, muscle performance, muscle soreness
- Study type
- Interventional
- Recruitment status
- Completed
- Enrolment
- 15 participants (actual)
- Lead sponsor
- Chariklia K. DeliUniversity, hospital or other
- Study start
- 1 Mar 2025 (actual)
- Primary completion
- 30 Dec 2025 (actual)
- Study completion
- 30 Dec 2025 (actual)
- First posted
- 7 Jan 2026 (actual)
- Results
- Not posted in the source record
Clinical summary
The research question as the sponsor registered it. This describes what the study plans to test, not what it found.
The aim of the study is to investigate the effect of the different menstrual cycle phases on the recovery from exercise-induced muscle injury in eumenorrheic women. For this purpose, in a cross-over, randomized study, at least 10 healthy eumenorrheic women aged 18-35 years will participate. In a random order, the participants will perform 45 min downhill (-15% slope) running on a treadmill at 70% HRmax followed by a maximal time-trial (95% HRmax) to exhaustion: i) during the follicular phase and ii) during the luteal phase. Before the exercise protocol, as well as at 24 h, 48 h and 72 h following exercise, complete blood count, delayed onset of muscle soreness (DOMS), creatine kinase activity, countermovement jump, isometric, concentric and eccentric strength of knee extensors and knee flexors, will be assessed. In addition, lactic acid concentration will be assessed before and immediately following exercise, and DOMS will be assessed immediately after the end of exercise. Following a washout period of ≥28 days (depending on the length of the menstrual cycle), participants will repeat the exact same procedure for the remaining phase of the menstrual cycle.
Detailed description
Research in the field of athletic training and rehabilitation, has traditionally focused on men, ignoring the physiological differences between sexes that may significantly affect athletic performance and recovery following exercise-induced muscle damage (EIMD). According to recent reviews of research in sports and exercise medicine, female representation is particularly limited, with only 4% - 13% of studies including women [1]. However, the number of females' participation in regular exercise and sports constantly increases, therefore it is imperative to define EIMD in women.
Except for being limited, most of the existing studies in women have been conducted during the early follicular phase of the cycle, when estrogen and progesterone levels are low, so that women's hormonal profile resembles that of men [2], in order to avoid any fluctuations [3]. However, this approach limits our understanding of the effects of the other phases of the cycle, such as the luteal phase, on performance and exercise-induced inflammation, and thus on women's ability to train and perform.
Although limited, some data suggest the influence of different phases of the menstrual cycle on both performance and exercise-induced muscle injury. For example, women's thermoregulatory levels are higher during the luteal phase of the cycle, which may affect their cardiovascular performance and endurance [4]. Similar data suggest that hormonal fluctuations may also affect recovery from EIMD [5]. Indicatively, the concentration of CK and IL-6 24 h and 72 h following 90 min of continuous running at 70% of VO2max was higher during the follicular phase [6].
Considering the above, research regarding the effect of the different phases of the menstrual cycle on performance and EIMD, it is crucial for the effective design of individualized training programs depending on the phase of the menstrual cycle, to improve performance and avoid injuries in women.
The aim of the study is to investigate the effect of the different menstrual cycle phases on the recovery from EIMD in eumenorrheic women.
According to an initial power analysis performed (probability error: 0.05, power: 0.80), a number of 8-10 individuals is required in order to identify statistically significant differences. Therefore, at least 10 participants will be included in the present study.
The design of the present study is cross-over, randomized and will be conducted in two cycles. The participants, after being informed about the study, as well as the benefits and potential risks, will sign an informed consent for participation in the study. Before the initiation of the data collection, familiarization of the participants with the assessment tests and the exercise protocol at low intensity, will precede. Also, the participants will provide a 7-days diet recall before their participation in the first experimental condition. Subsequently, baseline measurements will be performed at the Biochemistry, Physiology and Exercise Nutrition Laboratory (SmArT Lab), Department of Physical Education and Sports, University of Thessaly: anthropometric characteristics (body height, body mass, body mass index), body composition (body fat percentage, lean body mass, fat mass, bone density), aerobic capacity (VO2max). Subsequently, in a random order, the participants will perform 45 min of submaximal (at 70% HRmax) downhill (-15%) running on a treadmill followed by a maximal (95% HRmax) time-trial to exhaustion: i) during the follicular phase and ii) during the luteal phase. The randomization of the menstrual cycle phases will be done by a random integer sets generator, available online (Random.org). Before the exercise protocol, as well as 24 h, 48 h and 72 h following exercise, complete blood count (CBC), exercise-induced muscle injury [delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS), creatine kinase (CK) activity] and muscle performance [(countermovement jump (CMJ), isometric, concentric and eccentric strength of knee extensors and knee flexors)] will be assessed. In addition, metabolism (lactic acid) will be assessed before and immediately following exercise, and DOMS will be assessed immediately after the end of exercise. Following a washout period of ≥28 days (depending on the length of the menstrual cycle), participants will repeat the exact same procedure for the remaining phase of the menstrual cycle.
Study design
- Primary purpose
- Screening
- Allocation
- Randomised
- Intervention model
- Crossover
- Masking
- None (open label)
- Number of arms
- 2
| Arm | Type | Receives |
|---|---|---|
| Follicular phase | Experimental | Other: Exercise during follicular phaseThe participants will perform downhill running (-15% slope) on a treadmill at 70% of HRmax followed by running on a horizontal level (0% slope) at 95% HRmax until exhaustion, during the follicular phase |
| Luteal phase | Experimental | Other: Exercise during luteal phaseThe participants will perform downhill running (-15% slope) on a treadmill at 70% of HRmax followed by running on a horizontal level (0% slope) at 95% HRmax until exhaustion, during the luteal phase |
Who may qualify
- Ages
- 18 to 40 years
- Sex
- Female only
- Healthy volunteers
- Accepted
- Age groups
- Adult
Key inclusion criteria (6 listed)
- Physically active subjects (VO2max ≥35ml/kg/min)
- Absence of musculoskeletal injury (≥6 months)
- Abstinence from the use of ergogenic supplements (≥1 month)
- Abstinence from anti-inflammatory drugs (≥1 month)
- Abstinence from participating in exercise with eccentric content for at least 7 days before exercise
Key exclusion criteria (5 listed)
- Recent history of musculoskeletal injury (<6 months)
- Use of ergogenic performance supplements (<1 month)
- Taking anti-inflammatory drugs (<1 month)
- Participation in exercise with eccentric content in the previous 7 days before exercise
- Consumption of alcohol and energy drinks before exercise
Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening; this overview does not establish that a patient qualifies. Full inclusion and exclusion criteria.
Interventions
| Intervention | Type | Arms |
|---|---|---|
| Exercise during follicular phaseThe participants will perform downhill running (-15% slope) on a treadmill at 70% of HRmax followed by running on a horizontal level (0% slope) at 95% HRmax until exhaustion, during the follicular phase | Other | Follicular phase |
| Exercise during luteal phaseThe participants will perform downhill running (-15% slope) on a treadmill at 70% of HRmax followed by running on a horizontal level (0% slope) at 95% HRmax until exhaustion, during the luteal phase | Other | Luteal phase |
Primary outcome
Changes in Creatine kinase (CK) activity
Time frame: At baseline (pre), post-, 24 hours post-, 48 hours post-, 72 hours post-trial
CK activity will be measured in plasma using a Clinical Chemistry Analyzer with commercially available kits.
Changes in delayed onset of muscle soreness (DOMS)
Time frame: At baseline (pre), post-, 24 hours post-, 48 hours post-, 72 hours post-tria
DOMS of knee extensors, knee flexors, gluteal and gastrocnemius muscles of both lower extremities will be measured during palpation of the muscle belly and the distal region after performing three repetitions of a full squat.
Changes in blood lactate concentration
Time frame: At baseline (pre), 4 minutes post-exercise
Lactate concentration will be measured in capillary blood with a hand-portable analyzer
Changes in countermovement jump (CMJ) height
Time frame: At baseline (pre), 24 hours post-, 48 hours post-, 72 hours post-exercise
CMJ height will be measured with an optical system. Participants will perform 3 maximal CMJ jumps and the best effort will be recorded
Changes in isokinetic strength of knee extensors (KE) and knee flexors (KF)
Time frame: At baseline (pre), 24 hours post-, 48 hours post-, 72 hours post-exercise
Isometric, concentric and eccentric peak torque of the KE and KF of both limbs will be assessed on an isokinetic dynamometer
Changes in complete blood count (CBC)
Time frame: At baseline (pre), 24 hours post-, 48 hours post-, 72 hours post-exercise
CBC (white blood cells, erythrocytes, platelets) will be measured in an hematological analyzer with commercially available reagents
7 secondary outcomes
Differences in Estradiol concentration between trials
Time frame: At late-follicular and mid-luteal phase (according to each participant's menstrual cycle length), before exercise
Differences in Progesterone concentration between trials
Time frame: At late-follicular and mid-luteal phase (according to each participant's menstrual cycle length), before exercise
Body weight
Time frame: At late-follicular and mid-luteal phase (according to each participant's menstrual cycle length), before exercise
Body height
Time frame: At late-follicular and mid-luteal phase (according to each participant's menstrual cycle length), before exercise
Body mass index (BMI)
Time frame: At late-follicular and mid-luteal phase (according to each participant's menstrual cycle length), before exercise
Body fat
Time frame: At late-follicular and mid-luteal phase (according to each participant's menstrual cycle length), before exercise
Dietary intake
Time frame: At baseline
Results and safety
The study is completed, but results are not available in the source record. That does not mean the treatment did or did not work.
Research links
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govLast updated by the sponsor 3 Feb 2026.
- Background: PubMed 11788377Roepstorff C, Steffensen CH, Madsen M, Stallknecht B, Kanstrup IL, Richter EA, Kiens B. Gender differences in substrate utilization during submaximal exercise in endurance-trained subjects. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab. 2002 Feb;282(2):E435-47. doi: 10.1152/ajpendo.00266.2001.
- Background: PubMed 33201156Romero-Parra N, Cupeiro R, Alfaro-Magallanes VM, Rael B, Rubio-Arias JA, Peinado AB, Benito PJ; IronFEMME Study Group. Exercise-Induced Muscle Damage During the Menstrual Cycle: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Strength Cond Res. 2021 Feb 1;35(2):549-561. doi: 10.1519/JSC.0000000000003878.
- Background: PubMed 11842049Ruby BC, Coggan AR, Zderic TW. Gender differences in glucose kinetics and substrate oxidation during exercise near the lactate threshold. J Appl Physiol (1985). 2002 Mar;92(3):1125-32. doi: 10.1152/japplphysiol.00296.2001.
- Background: PubMed 36402915Oosthuyse T, Strauss JA, Hackney AC. Understanding the female athlete: molecular mechanisms underpinning menstrual phase differences in exercise metabolism. Eur J Appl Physiol. 2023 Mar;123(3):423-450. doi: 10.1007/s00421-022-05090-3. Epub 2022 Nov 19.
- Background: PubMed 12376334D'Eon TM, Sharoff C, Chipkin SR, Grow D, Ruby BC, Braun B. Regulation of exercise carbohydrate metabolism by estrogen and progesterone in women. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab. 2002 Nov;283(5):E1046-55. doi: 10.1152/ajpendo.00271.2002.
- Background: PubMed 39780766Ose BM, Eisenhauer J, Roepe I, Herda AA, Vopat BG, Vopat LM. Where Are All the Female Participants in Sports and Exercise Medicine Research? A Decade Later. Am J Sports Med. 2025 Jul;53(8):2022-2028. doi: 10.1177/03635465241278350. Epub 2025 Jan 9.
- Individual participant dataSharing planned: No
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Referral and contact
AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals. Contact the study team or a site listed below; they decide who can take part. This study is not recruiting at the moment.
Chariklia K Deli, Associate Professor, MSc, PhD principal investigator
University of Thessaly
1 site in 1 country: see every site and its status.
Questions about this trial
What is this clinical trial studying?
A study testing Exercise during follicular phase and Exercise during luteal phase in people with Menstrual Cycle Phase, run by Chariklia K. Deli at 1 site in Greece.
The full registered description is in the About this study section and the official record.
Who may be eligible to take part?
The sponsor lists 6 inclusion and 5 exclusion criteria. Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening, so read the full criteria and contact a listed site.
Is this clinical trial currently recruiting?
The record says: finished, as of the sponsor's last update on 3 Feb 2026. Status can change between updates, so confirm with the study contact before making plans.
Where is the study taking place?
The record lists 1 site in Greece. Whether a site is taking part right now should be confirmed with that site. See every site.
What are the possible benefits and risks?
They depend on the study and the treatment, and no study can promise a benefit. The study team explains the known risks during informed consent, before anyone joins; the record itself does not list them.
Are results available for this study?
The study is completed, but results are not available in the source record. That does not mean the treatment did or did not work.
How can a doctor refer a patient or contact the research team?
The record lists no contact. The official record names the sponsor, who can be asked directly. AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals.
What does the primary outcome measure?
Changes in Creatine kinase (CK) activity (time frame: At baseline (pre), post-, 24 hours post-, 48 hours post-, 72 hours post-trial). The study lists 6 primary outcomes in all. It is what the study was designed to measure, not a finding.
Where can I read the original study information?
On the ClinicalTrials.gov record for NCT07322874, which also lists 6 linked publications.
Does a listing mean the treatment is approved or proven to work?
No. A listing means the study is registered. It does not show that the treatment is safe, works, or is approved by a regulator.
How often is this information updated?
AzTrials copies changed records from ClinicalTrials.gov every night and reloads the whole registry every week. The sponsor last updated this record on 3 Feb 2026.