COVID-19's Impact on Physical Exercise: Is It Safe?
Cracking open the door to physical activity when you're sick can seem tempting. But should you bust a move if you've got COVID-19? And how long should you sit on the sidelines before getting back in the game? Cardio specialist Dr. Erik Van Iterson provides the lowdown on navigating fitness when your health takes a hit.
When it comes to exercising while COVID positive, light is the name of the game. "Ease into it with a less intense workout than usual," advises Dr. Van Iterson. Avoid high-intensity activities like a bat out of hell, as your body's performance is far from peak.
Faint, dizzy, fatigued, or nauseous? Time to call it quits.Spinning around in the ring with COVID can lead to more severe symptoms and the potential for lingering issues. So remember: rest is your best friend when knock-down illness hits.
But what if you're feeling peachy keen and ready to hit the gym? Save it for another day. Your body has been through the wringer; don't expect a speedy comeback.
When you feel the itch to exercise comes post-COVID, follow these steps:
- Take it slow: Don't rush things –Gradually climb that mountain to fitness, one step at a time.
- Rest plenty: Quality sleep and time to recover are critical, even if your symptoms were limited. Don't expect to sprint back to peak performance right away.
- Ignore the numbers: Every body is different, so don't assume a certain timeline works for you. Listen to your body, and consult your provider if you're unsure.
It's important to note that a drop in fitness during illness is generally temporary. But some research suggests that post-COVID exercise intolerance can occur, so watch out for any shortness of breath even after symptoms have cleared. If you find yourself struggling to catch your breath during exercise, consult your provider to help determine the cause and develop a safe exercise plan.
In conclusion, when it comes to exercising post-COVID-19, slow and steady wins the race. Listen to your body, pay attention to its signals, and always remember that recovery takes time and patience. Good luck, and here's to getting back to 100%!
- To prevent worsening symptoms and potential long-term issues when recovering from COVID-19, it's crucial to focus on health and wellness, including paying attention to mental health, as well as fitness and exercise.
- Once you've fully recovered from COVID-19 and are feeling well, it's essential to return to fitness gradually, taking advantage of light exercises and prioritizing rest, as fitness-and-exercise regimens can help improve overall health and medical-conditions in the long run.
- Incorporating a routine of exercise and meditation into your health-and-wellness plan can aid in boosting both physical health and mental health, ultimately contributing to a higher quality of life, even after experiencing a health challenge like COVID-19.
