Canadian Brand Teams Up with Megan Rapinoe for Initiative
Knix and CanFund research shows 99% of female athletes have periods during competitions, but many feel uncomfortable discussing it.
A brand of Canadian undergarments, Knix, with an intention to challenge the status quo of the menstrual taboos in sports industry, has teamed up with a soccer legend, Megan Rapinoe, to host a ‘Sport Your Period’ initiative before the Paris Olympics. The participants who are willing to share their experience about the menstrual cycle may receive compensation reaching $2,000. Knix and CanFund research reveals that, on the one hand, 99% of female athletes have experienced periods during international competitions; on the other hand, 64% of them feel uncomfortable talking about it to coaches and 75% worry about the leaks.
Phylicia George, the former Olympian who has moderated the campaign, claims “your period is something of pride”. The blood streaks can actually influence the performance and participation of sports, though the sports offering the opportunity to talk about it can help keep the teenagers involved and overcome dangerous stigmas. Many sports for women may not even have these conversations and may not be having them. Menstrual cups may not work for women who swim or run.
