For regular periods and full plates.

Meet the Lane 9 founders and team of clinicians working to reduce REDs and improve menstrual health for athletes at all levels of sport.

We're just gonna say it: skipping your period isn't normal.

It was once thought that female athletes skipped or lost their periods because they were “fit”, that it was a good thing, even! Now, we know that’s not true. We know there are myriad long term health impacts to these hormonal imbalances, and we know that if it goes on too long, an athlete loses their chance at competing in the sport(s) they love. This isn’t just true for collegiate and elite athletes, it’s true for ALL of us. Low bone density, cardiac health issues, mental health struggles, and GI disorders are just a few of the things that may happen to athletes who struggle with eating disorders, chronic under fueling, and menstrual irregularities.

Lane 9 clinicians are here to help.

L9P was co-founded by Alexis Fairbanks and Heather Caplan in 2017,

born of their shared experiences with hypothalamic amenorrhea and eating disorders.

They wished for clinicians and coaches who understood these issues. They launched L9P by sharing their personal stories, and the response was loud. Too many athletes had experienced the same things.

Runners and former athletes reached out, wanting to share their stories, too. Hundreds of women joined the Lane 9 Project community, looking for support, providers, and a space to talk about it.

Lane 9 Newsletter
Our Mission

Connect female athletes with women's health clinicians and coaches.

We're working to create a culture around women's sports that celebrates their menstrual cycles, fills their plates, and provides space to rest. Whether you’re competing at a high level or “just” in it for fun, L9P resources, coaches, and workshops are here to support you. And you’re in Lane 9 with all of us who get it.

MEET THE FOUNDERS

Heather Caplan RDN

is a registered dietitian and running coach. She primarily works with female athletes and active folks, helping them fuel adequately and with flexibility, and recover from hypothalamic amenorrhea. She has spent the past 15 years working with and supporting runners and athletes at all levels, to not only stay in the game(s), but also keep finding fun and enjoyment from sport.

Heather takes a weight-inclusive, non-diet approach to sports nutrition. She’s now based in Ann Arbor MI, and loves working on events and collaborative projects for Lane 9 and the local running communities and teams. Heather is also a parent to three kids, and one doggo.

Alexis Fairbanks

is an educator and running coach. She also has a strong passion for health and received her master’s degree in Health Promotion Management from American University. Alexis was a collegiate runner and continues to chase big goals at the half marathon and marathon distances.

Her perfect day is a morning run, followed by plenty of coffee and cuddles from her 110 pound lap dog, Troy. She’s now based in Denver CO, and manages Lane 9 Project content, social media, and operations.

Work With Us

Female athletes should have regular cycles, full plates, and rest days aplenty. Our resources and workshops help shift team cultures and coach attitudes to provide a healthier environment and more competitive athletes. Find the right-fit provider for you, or bring Lane 9 to your team!

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