Beyond the Cycle with Prof. Kerry McGawley: Coaching Female Athletes

For many coaches, the menstrual cycle feels like one of the hardest conversations to start. But avoiding it doesn’t help athletes perform at their best. In this episode, Nathan Haas and Colby Pearce are joined by Professor Kerry McGawley, a leading researcher in female athlete health and performance, to unpack what coaches and athletes actually need to know about the menstrual cycle. They explore why communication matters more than expertise, how coaches can create an environment where athletes feel comfortable discussing their health, and why there is no one-size-fits-all approach to female performance. Along the way, they discuss common menstrual symptoms, the latest evidence on performance throughout the menstrual cycle, REDs, hormonal contraception, and practical strategies for supporting female athletes without overcomplicating training. Whether you’re a coach, an athlete, or simply interested in the science of women’s health in sport, this conversation offers practical, evidence-based insights grounded in both research and real-world coaching. Professor Kerry McGawley is Professor of Sports Science at Mid Sweden University, where she researches elite endurance performance and female athlete health. She also consults with athletes and teams worldwide and is an accomplished age-group triathlete, including winning the IRONMAN 70.3 Age Group World Championship.