Why Consistency in Exercise is Crucial for Your Health
We've all experienced it – those few days without exercise that leave our bodies feeling stiff, achy, and uncomfortable. The longer we go without movement, the harder it becomes to get back into our routine.
After taking several days off due to illness, I experienced firsthand how quickly our bodies can regress. Even simple stretches became painful. My back, legs, and even my toes felt stiff. This discomfort was a powerful reminder of why consistent exercise matters.
Getting Back on Track After Illness
Returning to exercise after being sick can be challenging. My energy levels were low, with headaches and congestion still lingering, but I knew that gentle movement would ultimately help my recovery. Just yesterday, I couldn't sustain even five minutes of jogging without stopping, but today I could already feel improvement.
This is the reality of fitness – our bodies respond quickly to both activity and inactivity. The good news is that regaining lost ground happens faster than you might think if you're consistent.
Starting Where You Are
The beauty of exercise is that you don't need to be a professional athlete to benefit. As I often remind myself, “We must not lift 100 pounds to see results. Just start by lifting 10 pounds, 5 pounds. If we cannot lift weights at all, we can simply lift our legs – we are going to be fine.”
This approach is especially important when coming back from a break. Listen to your body and adjust accordingly. I typically run at higher speeds on my treadmill, but today I needed to dial it back. When I'm at my peak, I can handle speed level 9, but currently, level 7 is my maximum.
Mind Over Matter
One of the most important aspects of fitness is mental fortitude. As I pushed through my workout, I reminded myself: “It is very hard to lose weight, but very easy to gain it. You need to push your body. Force it. Don't let your body control you – control your body.”
This mental battle extends to nutrition as well: “Control your mouth. Control your belly. Control your cravings.” Sometimes you have to tell yourself, “I will not eat today. I will exercise instead.” It's not easy, but the results are worth it.
The Rewards of Consistency
Even after just one workout, I could feel the difference. My energy was returning, I was sweating rather than feeling cold, and I was able to sustain activity longer than the day before. This immediate feedback loop is one of the most rewarding aspects of regular exercise.
Your health is your foundation. When you're in good health, you can achieve your goals. It's only when illness or poor fitness prevents you from doing certain activities that your potential becomes limited.
So whether you're coming back from illness like me or just trying to establish a routine, remember that consistency is key. Even a short 20-minute workout can make a difference in how you feel and perform throughout your day.
