Why You Should Never Stop Exercising: My Return After Illness

Taking a break from exercise can have more significant consequences than you might expect. After being sick for several days without exercising, I experienced firsthand how quickly the body can become stiff and painful. My back, legs, and even my toes were painful due to the lack of movement.

This experience reinforced an important lesson: it's very hard to lose weight but incredibly easy to gain it. The key is not letting your body control you, but rather taking control of your body. You must force yourself to move even when you don't feel like it.

Returning to Exercise After Illness

Today marks my return to exercise after feeling sick. Yesterday was better than the day before, and today I'm feeling even stronger as my energy gradually returns. Just two days ago, I couldn't sustain jogging for even five minutes without stopping. Now I'm back to a steady pace, tracking my calories burned and pushing my limits.

Start Where You Are

You don't need to be a fitness professional to take care of your health. If you can't lift 100 pounds, start with 5 or 10 pounds. The important thing is to begin somewhere and progress little by little. Your health is foundational to achieving your goals in life.

Using a Treadmill Effectively

My treadmill has been essential for my recovery. It tracks calories burned, distance, incline, and speed. For beginners or those returning from illness, start with a comfortable speed setting. I personally use up to speed 7, though I used to manage 9 before getting sick.

For reference, speed 10 and above requires significant fitness levels – attempting these speeds when you're overweight or out of shape could lead to falls and injury. Always match the intensity to your current fitness level.

The Importance of Consistency

Even a short 20-minute workout can make a significant difference in how you feel. As I continue my workout today, I can already feel my energy returning and my body responding positively to movement.

When you're in good health, you're capable of pursuing your goals without limitations. That's why we need to exercise however we can, making movement a non-negotiable part of our daily lives.