How To Get Back to Exercise After Being Sick
It’s been a crazy time these past two years dealing with the pandemic, but in particular, we are facing some even tougher times right now with so many of us fighting sickness.
No matter if it’s “mild” or not, any bit of sickness can set you and your exercise routine back. Though it can be mentally draining and discouraging to feel like you’re going backwards, it’s good to remind yourself that it’s not a race and that you can get back to yourself, it may just take a little bit of time!
How To Get Back to Exercise After Being Sick
Make sure you’re fully recovered
First, it’s important to make sure you’re fully recovered before starting up exercise again. This is not a time to try to sweat out the sickness! In fact, trying to do too much too soon may put you at risk for a longer recovery. It’s also a good idea to talk with your doctor if you’re unsure about when to start back up again. If you’re experiencing any symptoms, then be sure to lay low and continue to rest until you are back to yourself.
Start Light!
After you are fully recovered and feeling good, then it’s time to start light! Avoid going overboard and stick with light exercise. A walk is a great way to get back into things or some really light movements. If you’re taking classes, stick with a lower impact class like barre or pilates or yoga and maybe start with just 30 minutes of the class and stick with level one movements throughout.
One of the ways viruses can attack your body is by elevating your resting heart rate. This can last weeks. The last thing you want to do is elevate it too soon if it’s still elevated while at rest.
Also, be sure to be careful when it comes to standing or sitting. Head and sinus congestion can lead to dizziness and vertigo. Be sure to take your time while transitioning to different positions.
Finally, HYDRATE! This is important always, but especially important as you are getting over any illness.
Gradually Progress
As you are feeling better, you can use this as an opportunity to gradually progress. Avoid the temptation to jump into the level you were at before you got sick. Instead, slowly ease into your exercise routine by slowly adding on the number of days you workout or number of minutes or adding weights or picking up the intensity.
Mindset: It can be upsetting to feel like you’ve been knocked backwards when it comes to your health and fitness routine. You may feel sad or ashamed or down on yourself if you are struggling to get back to where you were before. Remind yourself that it’s not a race. Remind yourself that your body may need some time to heal and adjust. Your health and wellness is for life, so take your time and realize that with patience and determination you will get back to the place you were in before.
Listen to your body
Finally, this is the most important piece. Listen to your body. You know it best. If something doesn’t feel right or something is hurting beyond your typical workout then stop and get some rest. If you’re still struggling, check in with your doctor or a physical therapist.
Sickness stinks and it can put a real damper on your exercise and wellness routine, yet if you’re someone who was exercising before you got sick then know that you already had the ability to get to that place and you can do it again. In fact, if you’re someone who is a regular exerciser, you’re more likely to be able to bounce back to exercise more quickly than if you didn’t at all.
We are excited for you to feel better and get back to classes. It can bring a sense of normalcy and routine to your day and it’s incredible what movement and connection can do for your mental well being. Yet, don’t feel pressure to jump back in full force. A part of taking care of your body is listening to your body and giving yourself a chance to recover and ease back in. Remember, our Remix community is here for you as you get back to it!
Ready to check in with someone about your health and wellness routine? Grab your VIP call with us today!
