The Power of Perseverance: Returning to Exercise After Illness
After several days of illness and inactivity, the road back to physical fitness can be challenging but essential. This was demonstrated clearly in a recent workout session where the determination to overcome physical discomfort highlighted the importance of maintaining a consistent exercise routine.
The individual had been feeling unwell for several days, experiencing symptoms including headaches, nasal congestion, and overall body stiffness. The lack of exercise during this period only exacerbated these issues, causing pain even in stretching the back of the legs, nails, and toes.
“It is very hard to dress nice, but very easy to gain weight. Very hard to lose weight,” they noted during the session. “All you need to do is to push your body. You force it. Not letting your body control you – you control your body.”
The Mental Battle of Exercise
The workout session revealed the mental fortitude required to maintain physical health. Despite feeling unwell, they pushed through a jogging session that would have been impossible just days before.
“Control your mouth. Control your belly. Control your cravings. Control everything. And then force your body to move. Force it. It’s not easy. But you’re going to force it,” they advised, highlighting the disciplined mindset needed for consistent exercise.
Gradual Progress is Key
One of the most important takeaways from the session was the emphasis on starting small and building gradually. “We must not lift 100 pounds to be healthy. Just start by lifting 10 pounds, 5 pounds. If you cannot lift 10 pounds, start smaller. Little by little, we are going to be fine.”
This progressive approach to fitness was demonstrated in their discussion of treadmill speeds. Having previously been able to run at speeds of 7-9, they now recognized their current limitations and adjusted accordingly, avoiding the highest settings of 10-12 that might cause injury.
The Return of Energy
By the end of the short workout session, positive results were already evident. “I was cold before, but now I’m sweating,” they noted, as they approached 200 calories burned. The sense of accomplishment was clear – “My energy level is coming back.”
This experience serves as a reminder that health is foundational to achieving all other goals. When illness prevents us from performing certain activities, it creates obstacles to our broader objectives. Regular exercise, even when modified to accommodate current limitations, is essential to maintaining the physical capacity needed for success in all areas of life.
The journey back to fitness after illness isn’t about perfection or professional-level performance – it’s about consistency, perseverance, and the willingness to push through discomfort for long-term health benefits.