The Importance of Consistency in Exercise After Illness: A Personal Journey
Getting back to exercise after being sick can be challenging, but it's often necessary for recovery and overall wellbeing. After several days of illness where exercise was put on hold, the body quickly becomes stiff and uncomfortable. This is a common experience that highlights just how quickly our bodies can lose conditioning.
When you've been sedentary due to illness, you'll likely notice increased stiffness in your legs, neck, and even your extremities. The lack of movement causes muscles to tighten and joints to stiffen, creating a cycle that can be difficult to break. The solution, though uncomfortable at first, is to gradually reintroduce movement.
Mind Over Matter: Controlling Your Body
One of the most challenging aspects of fitness is the mental game. As the saying goes, it's “very hard to lose weight, but very easy to gain weight.” Success comes down to control – controlling your body rather than letting your body control you.
This control extends to your eating habits as well. When cravings hit, having the discipline to say “no” is crucial. Control your mouth, control your belly, and force your body to move even when it resists. It's not easy, but with persistence, it becomes more manageable.
Starting Small: The Path Back to Fitness
You don't need to be a professional athlete or lift heavy weights to benefit from exercise. Starting with what you can manage – even if it's just 5 or 10 pounds – is perfectly acceptable. The key is consistency and gradual progression.
For cardio exercise like jogging on a treadmill, pay attention to your speed settings. Beginners or those returning after illness might start at speeds of 2-3, while more conditioned individuals might handle 5-7. The highest settings (10-12) are typically reserved for those with significant conditioning – attempting these speeds when you're not ready can lead to injury.
Monitoring Progress
When exercising, it's helpful to track metrics such as time, calories burned, and speed. This not only helps you gauge your progress but also provides motivation as you see improvements over time.
Even a short 20-minute workout can make a difference, especially when recovering from illness. As your energy levels return, you'll find yourself able to sustain activity for longer periods and at higher intensities.
The Connection Between Health and Achievement
Good health is fundamental to achieving your goals. When you're unwell, even simple tasks become challenging, and larger aspirations may seem impossible. This reality underscores the importance of prioritizing your physical wellbeing through regular exercise and healthy habits.
Remember that consistency is key. Even when returning from illness, a short, moderate-intensity workout can help reactivate your body and set you back on the path to wellness.
