The Journey Back to Fitness: Overcoming Sickness and Rediscovering Exercise

After several days of feeling unwell, the journey back to fitness can be challenging but rewarding. This is precisely what one fitness enthusiast discovered after a period of illness that left their body stiff and uncomfortable.

“I have been feeling sick for some days, I have not really exercised and I did not do any good for my system,” they explained. The lack of physical activity had noticeable consequences: stiffness, pain in the legs, and even discomfort in the toes. This experience serves as a powerful reminder of how quickly our bodies can react to inactivity.

The Importance of Pushing Through

What stands out most is the determination to overcome these obstacles. Despite experiencing headaches and nasal congestion, they made the decision to restart their fitness routine with a short 20-minute workout session.

“It is very hard to dress nice, but very easy to gain weight. Very hard to lose weight. Very easy to get weight,” they observed. This simple truth resonates with many who struggle with fitness and weight management.

Mind Over Matter

The key message shared is about developing mental discipline over physical cravings: “All you need to do is to push your body. You force it. Not letting your body control you. You control your body. Control your mouth.”

This approach to fitness emphasizes willpower and determination. When the body wants to rest or indulge, the mind must take command and redirect those impulses toward healthier choices.

Starting Small

An important reminder for fitness beginners is that you don’t need to start with extraordinary goals: “You must not lift 100 pounds. Just start by lifting 10 pounds, 5 pounds… Just little by little, we are going to be fine.”

This gradual approach prevents discouragement and injury while building sustainable habits. The focus should be on consistency rather than intensity, especially when recovering from illness.

Measuring Progress

Using a treadmill with features to track time, calories, and speed helps monitor improvement. The workout session aimed for 200 calories burned, with adjustments to speed based on current fitness level.

“Before, I used to put up to 9. But now, I can do up to 7, but not 10, not 11, not 12. 12 is the highest,” they shared, acknowledging current limitations while remembering past capabilities.

The Reward of Persistence

By the end of the session, there was a noticeable improvement: “My energy level is coming back.” This immediate benefit of exercise – the return of energy and vitality – serves as powerful motivation to maintain consistency.

The journey back to fitness after illness demonstrates that our bodies are resilient when given the right care and attention. Through determination and consistent effort, we can overcome setbacks and continue progressing toward our health goals.