Dina Asher-Smith calls for more research into effects of periods on performance

To optimise for archiving, the original image and related documents associated with this article have been removed.

Dina Asher-Smith has called for there to be more research into the effects of periods on sporting performance after her cycle caused her to pull up with cramp at the European Championships.

Asher-Smith was the defending champion but pulled up with cramp during Tuesday’s 100m final and had originally believed the issue was caused by lack of hydration or a poor recovery. However, after qualifying for today’s 200m final she said “girls’ stuff” had caused the cramp in her leg.

Asher-Smith told BBC Sport “It is a huge topic for women in sport. It is something I think more people need to research from a sports science perspective. Sometimes you see girls who have been so consistent have a random dip, and behind the scenes they have been really struggling. It could do with more funding because if it was a men's issue we would have a million different ways to combat things.”

Asher-Smith pulled up with a hamstring injury in this year’s World Championships which resulted in her missing the Commonwealth Games so she will be hoping to retain her European 200m title. 

You may also like

View All

Pinned Article

Sport Resolutions Annual Conference 2026: Tickets Now on Sale

Tickets for the Sport Resolutions 11th Annual Conference are now available. Join leading sport and legal professionals in London on 7 May 2026 for a full day of discussion, insight, and networking

Read More

CFRU v West Bromwich Albion FC

An operative award has been issued by the Independent Club Financial Review Panel (CFRP) in relation an alleged breach by West Bromwich Albion FC of the Championship Profitability and Sustainability Rules (P&S Rules)

Read More

Pain management in sport: Unintended harms and implications for performance enhancement

SESSION ANNOUNCEMENT | Sport Resolutions Annual Conference 2026 in association with Winston & Strawn LLP

Read More