The Journey Back: Overcoming Sickness Through Exercise

Returning to physical activity after illness can be challenging, but it’s often the best way to regain strength and energy. One fitness enthusiast recently shared their experience of getting back on track after feeling sick for several days.

“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. “Not exercising did not help me at all, but made my body stiff. I tried to stretch, even the back of my legs, my ankles, my toes, everything pained me because of lack of exercise.”

The Importance of Pushing Through

Despite still feeling unwell with symptoms including neck pain, headache, and nasal congestion, they decided to attempt a 20-minute workout to help their recovery. The session demonstrated an important principle in fitness: sometimes you need to push your body rather than letting it control you.

“All you need to do is to push your body. You force it, not letting your body control you. Control your body, control your mouth,” they advised. “It is so hard, but you’re gonna force it.”

Signs of Recovery

The workout showed clear signs of progress compared to previous days. “If it was yesterday, I cannot sustain this jogging for five minutes! If it was two days ago, that was the worst of them!” they noted, celebrating the return of their energy.

Even while exercising on a treadmill at moderate speeds (avoiding the highest settings of 10-12 due to current fitness level), they were able to maintain activity long enough to burn nearly 200 calories during the session.

Starting Small

One of the most valuable insights shared was about starting with manageable goals. “Your health is what you can achieve. We need to exercise anyhow we can! We must not be professional… Just start by lifting 10 pounds, 5 pounds if you cannot lift 10 pounds. Just little by little, we are going to be fine.”

This approach of gradual progression applies whether you’re recovering from illness or simply beginning a fitness journey. The key is consistency and gradually pushing your limits.

The Reward of Persistence

By the end of the session, the difference was clear: “I’m sweating now. I was cold, but now I’m sweating… My energy level is coming back.”

This experience serves as a reminder that sometimes the best remedy for feeling sluggish or stiff is getting the body moving again, even when it feels difficult. The rewards of increased energy and improved mobility make the effort worthwhile.