British triathlete Emma Pallant-Browne, one of the world’s top triathletes, proudly embraced a recent photo of herself competing in a racing suit stained with blood from her period. She expressed her joy that the image sparked candid conversations about the realities faced by female athletes.
The photo, taken during the PTO European Open in Ibiza, showed Pallant-Browne racing while menstruating. And it quickly gained attention on social media. Initially shared by the Professional Triathletes Organization, she later reposted it on Instagram. Calling it “beautiful” and addressing a commenter who suggested cropping it for a more flattering look.
Responding to criticism, Emma Pallant-Browne stood proud
In response to the criticism, Pallant-Browne emphasized that as a role model, it is essential to showcase both the highs and lows of life. She was demonstrating her humanity so that the next generation can relate to her experiences. She firmly believed that there was nothing to be ashamed of concerning menstruation, considering it a natural process that should be normalized.
For Pallant-Browne, the photo also held personal significance as it symbolized her journey to regain her period. During her earlier career as an endurance runner, she lost her period due to undereating and overtraining. Thanks to support from UK Athletics and guidance from experts, she eventually recovered from her period and regained her health.
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Various other athletes stood by Emma Pallant-Browne, displaying overwhelming support
The Instagram post received widespread support from various athletes, professionals, and recreational individuals, with many women sharing their own experiences of participating in sports during menstruation. Pallant-Browne was delighted to learn from their stories and felt empowered by the sense of community that formed around her post.
“4th place for me @professionaltriathletesorg European Open, definitely the most amazing triathlon field I have ever raced 🤩🙌 Chocolate medal which @thisisjrad has definitely already eaten 🤡😂🤪
Thank you so so much for all the support ❤️😍🙏🙏” She posted after her momentous race.
Placing fourth in Spain, she was proud and so are we
Despite the challenges that come with racing during her period, such as changes in body temperature, heart rate, and physical sensations, Pallant-Browne refused to use it as an excuse and prided herself on her fourth-place finish during the race in Spain.
As a physiotherapist, Emma Pallant-Browne is passionate about maximizing female athletes’ performance and has even experimented with modifying her diet and caffeine intake in relation to her menstrual cycle.
The conversation surrounding periods and exercise has evolved over time, with society becoming more open to discussing the topic. Pallant-Browne hopes that her photo and experience will inspire and encourage young athletes—particularly girls, to continue participating in sports despite any challenges they may face, including their periods.
Overall, her candid and empowering approach to addressing menstruation in sports has earned her widespread admiration and praise, further contributing to the normalization of this natural aspect of female athletes’ lives.
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Sources
- “A pro triathlete who bled through her race suit while on her period was criticized online. She shared the ‘beautiful’ photo, calling it ‘the reality of females in sport.’.” Insider. Anna Medaris. May 31, 2023
- “Emma Pallant-Browne reflects on viral triathlon photo: ‘A period is a normal thing, and I don’t want anyone to feel ashamed of it.’” The Globe and Mail. Rachel Brady. June 4, 2023
- Instagram. em_pallant