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Home Workouts for PCOD Management

Explore effective home workouts for PCOD management, including yoga, cardio, and strength training routines to support hormonal balance.

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Written by Dr. Shaik Abdul Kalam

Reviewed by Dr. Siri Nallapu MBBS

Last updated on 31st Jul, 2025

Introduction

Polycystic Ovary Disorder (PCOD) is a common hormonal condition affecting many women. It can lead to irregular periods, weight gain, acne, and even fertility issues. While medical treatment is important, lifestyle changes—especially regular exercise—can make a big difference in managing PCOD symptoms.

The good news? You don’t need a gym membership to stay active! Home workouts can be just as effective in improving insulin resistance, balancing hormones, and boosting overall health. This article will guide you through simple, effective exercises you can do at home to help manage PCOD.

Why Exercise Helps with PCOD?

Before we dive into workouts, let’s understand how exercise benefits PCOD:

  • Improves Insulin Sensitivity: PCOD often leads to insulin resistance, making weight loss difficult. Exercise helps your body use insulin better.

  • Regulates Hormones: Physical activity reduces excess male hormones (androgens), which cause acne and excess hair growth.

  • Aids Weight Management: Even a small reduction in weight (5-10%) can improve PCOD symptoms.

  • Reduces Stress: Stress worsens PCOD. Exercise releases endorphins, which help lower stress and anxiety.

Best Home Workouts for PCOD

You don’t need fancy equipment—just consistency and motivation! Here are some effective home exercises:

1. Yoga for Hormonal Balance

Yoga reduces stress and improves circulation to reproductive organs. Try these poses:

  • Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose): Helps regulate menstrual cycles.

  • Surya Namaskar (Sun Salutation): A full-body workout that boosts metabolism.

  • Balasana (Child’s Pose): Reduces stress and fatigue.

Tip: Practice yoga for 20-30 minutes daily for best results.

2. Strength Training (Bodyweight Exercises)

Building muscle helps burn fat and improves insulin sensitivity. Try:

  • Squats: Strengthens legs and core.

  • Push-ups (or Knee Push-ups): Works arms and chest.

  • Plank: Strengthens the entire core.

How often? 3-4 times a week, 3 sets of 10-15 reps each.

Consult Top Specialists for Personalised Tips

Dr. Rajib Ghose, General Practitioner

Dr. Rajib Ghose

General Practitioner

25 Years • MBBS

East Midnapore

VIVEKANANDA SEBA SADAN, East Midnapore

950

850

Dr. Indrajit Das, General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

Dr. Indrajit Das

General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

4 Years • "MD (Internal medicine) : Gauhati Medical College and Hospital, Guwahati (2018-2021) MD (Pathology) : Gauhati Medical College and Hospital, Guwahati (2012-2015) MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery) : Silchar Medical College, Assam (2003-2008) "

Guwahati

Apollo Excelcare Hospital, Guwahati

700

No Booking Fees

Dr. M. Krishna Bharath Reddy, General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

Dr. M. Krishna Bharath Reddy

General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

10 Years • MD General Medicine, MRCP (London) and DM( Critical Care)

Chennai

Apollo Hospitals Greams Road, Chennai

1500

1500

No Booking Fees

Dr. M C S Reddy, General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

Dr. M C S Reddy

General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

9 Years • MBBS, MD (Gen. Med.), Dip.Diabetoogy, IDCC

Nellore

Apollo Speciality Hospitals, Nellore

500

No Booking Fees

3. Cardio Workouts (No Equipment Needed)

Cardio helps burn calories and improve heart health. Try:

  • Jump Rope: 5-10 minutes daily.

  • Spot Jogging: Jog in place for 10-15 minutes.

  • Dancing: Put on your favourite music and dance for 20 minutes!

Tip: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate cardio, 5 days a week.

4. Pilates for Core Strength

Pilates strengthens the core and improves posture, which is great for PCOD. Try:

  • Leg Raises: Strengthens lower abs.

  • Bridge Pose: Tones glutes and lower back.

How often? 2-3 times a week.

5. Breathing Exercises & Meditation

  • Stress worsens PCOD. Deep breathing and meditation help calm the mind.

  • Pranayama (Alternate Nostril Breathing): Balances hormones.

  • 5-Minute Meditation: Sit quietly, focus on breathing.

Tip: Practice daily for stress relief.

Lifestyle Tips for Better PCOD Management

Exercise alone isn’t enough—pair it with these habits:

  • Eat a Balanced Diet: Include whole grains, lean proteins, and fibre. Avoid sugary and processed foods.

  • Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to flush out toxins.

  • Sleep Well: Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep to regulate hormones.

  • Reduce Stress: Try journaling, hobbies, or relaxation techniques.

When to Seek Professional Help?

If PCOD symptoms (irregular periods, severe acne, hair loss) persist despite lifestyle changes, consult a doctor. Apollo 24|7 offers expert consultations and personalised treatment plans. You can book an online appointment easily!

Conclusion

Managing PCOD requires a holistic approach—exercise, diet, and stress management. The best part? You can start today, right at home! Even 30 minutes of daily movement can make a big difference in how you feel.

Consult Top Specialists

Dr. Rajib Ghose, General Practitioner

Dr. Rajib Ghose

General Practitioner

25 Years • MBBS

East Midnapore

VIVEKANANDA SEBA SADAN, East Midnapore

950

850

Dr. Indrajit Das, General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

Dr. Indrajit Das

General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

4 Years • "MD (Internal medicine) : Gauhati Medical College and Hospital, Guwahati (2018-2021) MD (Pathology) : Gauhati Medical College and Hospital, Guwahati (2012-2015) MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery) : Silchar Medical College, Assam (2003-2008) "

Guwahati

Apollo Excelcare Hospital, Guwahati

700

No Booking Fees

Dr. M. Krishna Bharath Reddy, General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

Dr. M. Krishna Bharath Reddy

General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

10 Years • MD General Medicine, MRCP (London) and DM( Critical Care)

Chennai

Apollo Hospitals Greams Road, Chennai

1500

1500

No Booking Fees

Dr. M C S Reddy, General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

Dr. M C S Reddy

General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

9 Years • MBBS, MD (Gen. Med.), Dip.Diabetoogy, IDCC

Nellore

Apollo Speciality Hospitals, Nellore

500

No Booking Fees

Consult Top Specialists for Personalised Tips

Dr. Swathi Reddy Perugu, General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

Dr. Swathi Reddy Perugu

General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

7 Years • MBBS, MD (General Medicine)

Hyderabad

Health plus, Hyderabad

625

Dr. Rajib Ghose, General Practitioner

Dr. Rajib Ghose

General Practitioner

25 Years • MBBS

East Midnapore

VIVEKANANDA SEBA SADAN, East Midnapore

950

850

Dr. Indrajit Das, General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

Dr. Indrajit Das

General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

4 Years • "MD (Internal medicine) : Gauhati Medical College and Hospital, Guwahati (2018-2021) MD (Pathology) : Gauhati Medical College and Hospital, Guwahati (2012-2015) MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery) : Silchar Medical College, Assam (2003-2008) "

Guwahati

Apollo Excelcare Hospital, Guwahati

700

No Booking Fees

Dr. M. Krishna Bharath Reddy, General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

Dr. M. Krishna Bharath Reddy

General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

10 Years • MD General Medicine, MRCP (London) and DM( Critical Care)

Chennai

Apollo Hospitals Greams Road, Chennai

1500

1500

No Booking Fees

Dr. M C S Reddy, General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

Dr. M C S Reddy

General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

9 Years • MBBS, MD (Gen. Med.), Dip.Diabetoogy, IDCC

Nellore

Apollo Speciality Hospitals, Nellore

500

No Booking Fees

Consult Top Specialists

Dr. Swathi Reddy Perugu, General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

Dr. Swathi Reddy Perugu

General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

7 Years • MBBS, MD (General Medicine)

Hyderabad

Health plus, Hyderabad

625

Dr. Rajib Ghose, General Practitioner

Dr. Rajib Ghose

General Practitioner

25 Years • MBBS

East Midnapore

VIVEKANANDA SEBA SADAN, East Midnapore

950

850

Dr. Indrajit Das, General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

Dr. Indrajit Das

General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

4 Years • "MD (Internal medicine) : Gauhati Medical College and Hospital, Guwahati (2018-2021) MD (Pathology) : Gauhati Medical College and Hospital, Guwahati (2012-2015) MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery) : Silchar Medical College, Assam (2003-2008) "

Guwahati

Apollo Excelcare Hospital, Guwahati

700

No Booking Fees

Dr. M. Krishna Bharath Reddy, General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

Dr. M. Krishna Bharath Reddy

General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

10 Years • MD General Medicine, MRCP (London) and DM( Critical Care)

Chennai

Apollo Hospitals Greams Road, Chennai

1500

1500

No Booking Fees

Dr. M C S Reddy, General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

Dr. M C S Reddy

General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

9 Years • MBBS, MD (Gen. Med.), Dip.Diabetoogy, IDCC

Nellore

Apollo Speciality Hospitals, Nellore

500

No Booking Fees

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