The Power of Persistence: Getting Back to Exercise After Illness

Returning to exercise after being sick can be challenging, but it’s an essential step toward reclaiming your health and energy. This was clearly demonstrated in a recent workout session where determination overcame physical discomfort.

“I have been feeling sick for some days, I have not really exercised and I did not do any good for my system,” the fitness enthusiast explained. “Not exercising did not help me, but made my body to be stiff. I tried to stretch, even the back of my legs, my knees, my toes, everything pained me. Because of lack of exercise.”

The Consequences of Inactivity

The body responds quickly to inactivity, often resulting in stiffness, discomfort, and reduced energy levels. Many people experience this cycle – feeling unwell leads to reduced physical activity, which in turn can prolong recovery time and create new physical discomforts.

Despite feeling under the weather with headaches and nasal congestion, the decision to push through and exercise proved beneficial. “I still feel my neck, my head is aching me, my nose is growing, but I will be fine,” was the determined attitude that led to a noticeable improvement in energy and stamina during the session.

Mind Over Matter

One of the key messages shared during the workout was the importance of mental control over physical desires: “It is very hard to lose weight. Very easy to get weight. All you need to do is to push your body. Force it. Not letting your body control you. Control your body. Control your mouth.”

This philosophy extends to all aspects of fitness: “That’s why when you feel like eating a snack, you say no. I will not eat today’s snack. I will exercise. Just go ahead. Control your mouth. Control your belly.”

Progress, Not Perfection

An important reminder for anyone on their fitness journey is that you don’t need to be a professional athlete to benefit from exercise: “We must not be professional. We must not lift 100 pounds. Just start by lifting 10 pounds. Five pounds. If we cannot lift 10 pounds. Just little by little, we are going to be fine.”

This gradual approach was evident in the workout itself, where adjustments were made based on current fitness levels. “I used to put up to seven. Before, I used to put up to nine. But now, I can do up to seven, but not 10, not 11, not 12. 12 is the highest.”

The Reward of Persistence

By the end of the 20-minute session, the benefits were already apparent: “My energy level is coming back.” This quick improvement demonstrates how even a short workout can have immediate positive effects, especially when recovering from illness.

The key takeaway? Your health is your foundation for everything else. As wisely noted during the session, “When you are in good health, you can achieve all. It’s only when you cannot do certain things that you cannot achieve your goals.”

Whether you’re recovering from illness or simply trying to establish a healthier lifestyle, remember that consistency and persistence matter more than intensity. Every small step counts toward building a healthier, more energetic you.