The Journey Back to Fitness: Overcoming Illness Through Exercise
After several days of feeling under the weather, getting back to exercise can be a challenging but necessary step toward recovery. This was the experience shared during a recent workout session where persistence and determination played key roles in rebuilding strength and stamina.
“I have been feeling sick for some days, I have not really exercised and that did not help me at all,” the fitness enthusiast explained. “Not exercising did not help me, but made my body stiff. I tried to stretch, even the back of my legs, my nails, my toes – everything pained me because of lack of exercise.”
The Importance of Movement During Recovery
Despite still experiencing symptoms including neck pain, headache, and nasal congestion, the decision to engage in a short 20-minute workout proved beneficial. The simple act of getting up and moving helped transition from sickness back to wellness.
“No more lying down. I got up. I shake my body. No more sickness,” was the empowering statement made during the session, highlighting the psychological boost that comes with physical activity.
Progress Is Visible
The improvement from previous days was notable. “If it was yesterday, I cannot sustain this jogging for five minutes non-stop. Two days ago was the worst.” This gradual progress demonstrates how quickly the body can begin to recover when given the opportunity to move.
Managing Expectations and Starting Small
An important message shared during the workout was about realistic expectations: “We must not be professional. We must not lift 100 pounds. Just start by lifting 10 pounds or 5 pounds. If we cannot lift 10 pounds, just little by little, we are going to be fine.”
This approach to fitness acknowledges that everyone starts somewhere, and incremental progress is still progress. Whether it’s jogging at a moderate pace or gradually increasing workout intensity, the key is consistency.
Adapting to Your Current Fitness Level
The session also included insights about adjusting exercise intensity to match current capabilities. Using a treadmill as an example, it was explained that speed settings should align with your fitness level: “When I lose weight, I’ll start running at 10. Because that way you have to pop up. If I put it now, I will fall.”
Previously comfortable at speed settings of 7-9, the current recommendation was to stay within manageable limits and gradually work back up as strength returns.
The Reward of Persistence
By the end of the session, positive results were already apparent: “I’m sweating now. I was cold before, but now I’m sweating” and “My energy level is coming back.” These immediate benefits illustrate why movement is so essential, especially when recovering from illness.
The workout concluded with nearly 200 calories burned and a renewed sense of accomplishment, proving that even a short exercise session can make a significant difference in how we feel.
Key Takeaways
- Movement is essential for recovery after illness
- Start with short, manageable workout sessions
- Adjust intensity to match your current capabilities
- Recognize and celebrate small improvements
- Be patient with your body as it regains strength
Remember that controlling your health journey is about making consistent choices that support your wellbeing, even when it’s challenging. As was aptly stated: “Control your body. Don’t let your body control you.”