Getting back to the Gym
I haven't been to the gym in 6 or 7 months, not since I started feeling unwell really. I really need to re-build some muscle mass and lose a little weight now that I am holding down food again. And, one of my medications is known to cause weight gain (which I have always been on the heavy side as it is). Does anyone have any advice on easing back into a regular work out routine? I have a lot of joint pain so planning to start with low impact exercises
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Hi Poonicorn,
We hear your concerns as well as your frustrations! Here is an article that I think you'll find helpful regarding the gym! https://inflammatoryboweldisease.net/living/gym-me-ibd/.
Warmly, Meagan, InflammatoryBowelDisease.net Team MemberThank you Meagan
The article was helpful and I can relate quite a bit to it. I am eazing into it with small weights and walking on the treadmill for now, haven't gotten back to the machines yet
I have definitely gone through this many times. I would suggest just taking things slow and be kind to yourself. Your body is going through a lot and taking it slow is key.
I can't do anything high intensity. Yoga has been great for me. But doing something like Crossfit or running is a huge no, no. I always feel worse.
Always dancing,
Elizabeth (team member)Thank you!
I have been taking it slowly and hope one day I can get back into a more "normal" routine. I do some yoga at home too as it is easy on the joints. People tend to laugh a bit when I say my joints hurt because Im so young still. I have always worked with my hands and done plenty of heavy lifting.I know exactly how you feel! It is insane to say your joints hurt at such a young age but it is the brutal reality. For me, my knees would feel horrible whenever I was flaring. Could barely jog because my knees felt so uncomfortable. You are definitely not alone!
Always dancing,
Elizabeth (team member)
Hi Poonicorn!
I started with physical therapy. I got a prescription from my rheumatologist, because of my joints and arthritis. It really helped ease me into pilates. Adding a little yoga to that and it's helped me walk a little longer and ease back into some gym activities. I stopped for a while, because of cellulitis. But now I'll start again with physical therapy and so on and so on...
-Brooke
(inflammatoryboweldisease.net Team Member)
Like others on here, I suggest going slow. Do light exercises until you are comfortable. Then slowly build up to a more challenging workout. Also, stay hydrated. It's obvious, I know, but with Crohn's disease we don't absorb nutrients well so this is important. Good luck!
Best,
Matt (Team Member)
