Why Regular Exercise is Crucial for Recovery After Illness
Getting back to exercise after being sick can be challenging, but it's often the best remedy for your body. After several days of feeling unwell and not exercising, the negative effects became very apparent – stiffness throughout the body, pain during stretching, and overall discomfort.
The reality is stark: it's incredibly difficult to lose weight but remarkably easy to gain it. This imbalance means we need to be proactive about our health and fitness routines, especially after periods of illness or inactivity.
Taking Control of Your Body
The key to maintaining fitness is not letting your body control you, but rather you controlling your body. This means:
- Controlling what you eat and when
- Forcing your body to move even when it feels difficult
- Starting with whatever intensity level you can manage
- Building back gradually after illness
When returning to exercise after being sick, it's important to listen to your body while still challenging it appropriately. Starting with light jogging or walking can help rebuild your stamina and energy levels.
The Importance of Consistency
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—and gradually increasing over time will lead to progress.
Regular exercise helps to:
- Reduce stiffness and body pain
- Increase energy levels
- Support recovery from illness
- Maintain a healthy weight
Finding Your Exercise Intensity
When using equipment like a treadmill, pay attention to the settings that work for your current fitness level. The speed setting should challenge you without overwhelming you.
For beginners or those recovering from illness, lower speeds (2-3) are appropriate. As fitness improves, gradually increase to moderate (5-7) and eventually higher speeds (7-10) for those who are ready for more intense workouts.
Remember that good health is the foundation for achieving all other goals. Without it, many aspirations remain out of reach. That's why consistent exercise—whatever form it takes—is crucial for overall wellbeing and long-term health.
