As a runner, I often find inspiration in stories of women—young and old—who take on their first major races. These narratives typically revolve around themes of personal growth, such as weight loss, overcoming health challenges, or raising awareness for meaningful causes. Recently, 26-year-old Maya Jenkins completed the London Marathon while menstruating. She made headlines not just for her achievement but for running without any menstrual products.
While I, too, have participated in a marathon during my period, I didn’t feel the need to make a statement about it. Sure, I had to plan ahead; I discreetly stored tampons in my sports bra and was mindful of medical stations and restrooms. However, I did not see my menstrual cycle as a barrier to my running success. The real challenge was the months of training and the mental hurdles of balancing my running with family responsibilities.
Jenkins, on the other hand, chose to run without any feminine hygiene products to draw attention to period shaming and the stigma surrounding menstruation. She expressed on her blog that she wanted to represent those who lack access to menstrual supplies and those who suffer in silence due to societal pressures. Her act was meant to challenge the idea that menstruation is something to be hidden.
One has to wonder how previous generations, like my grandmother’s, would perceive such a choice. Growing up in a time with fewer options for menstrual care, she might have asked why anyone would intentionally forgo a product that provides comfort and convenience. Isn’t that what progress means?
Feminism often manifests in diverse ways, and while we strive for equality, it can be perplexing to see someone frame menstruation as something to “overcome.” For me, it’s about managing a natural bodily function rather than battling it. My period doesn’t diminish my worth or abilities; it simply requires some logistical planning. As a mother of sons, I have shared with them that menstruation is a normal part of life, not something to shy away from or be embarrassed about.
Jenkins mentioned that during the marathon, she felt that sexism could be challenged. Indeed, women have made significant strides in the marathon world since Kathrine Switzer’s historic run in 1967. In recent years, female participation in marathons has surged, with women completing 57 percent of races in 2013. A Danish study even indicated that women maintain a steadier pace than men when running marathons.
While I can appreciate Jenkins’ effort to bring attention to an important issue, as a female runner, I prefer to be recognized simply as a runner. Each participant faces their own set of challenges, and I would rather focus on the common experience of racing rather than being defined by my biological functions.
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In summary, while Maya Jenkins’ choice to run the marathon without menstrual products was meant to make a statement, it raises questions about how we perceive and address menstruation in the context of women’s empowerment. Menstruation should be viewed as a normal aspect of life, not a hurdle to overcome.
Keyphrase: Running a marathon while menstruating
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