Exercising with autoimmunity can be a tricky thing. I have mentioned before how important it is to find just the right level of exercise.
If you push too hard, or start too fast, it may send you into a flare.
So the name of the game is LOW, SLOW, and CONSISTENT.
I often talk about finding fun ways to stay moving. Are you including strength training in your routine?
Here is why you should be:
We will start with the obvious: increased strength.
Increased strength supports improved stability. This is extra important for many of us with autoimmunity.
Here are some of the behind the scenes health benefits to strength training;
- Boosts metabolism
- Strengthens bones
- Supports cardiac health
- Reduces visceral fat (the fat around your organs) and, in turn
- supports liver health
- helps stabilize blood sugar
- may help prevent certain cancers
- Improves mood
- Supports cognitive function
While I encourage you to include strength training in your routine, please don't head to the gym for an intense lifting session! If you already do some form of strength training...that is great!
It is essential to pay attention to intensity, duration, and recovery times and adjust them to fit where you are right now.
If you are just starting out, keep your intensity very low until you know what your body can handle.
Keep your workout shorter than you think is reasonable.
Give yourself extra recovery time between trainings. Do something gentle between strength training sessions like yoga or walking.
Most importantly...LISTEN TO YOUR BODY!
If you build slowly, you will be amazed at how you will feel by the beginning of summer!
Take Action
Assess your exercise routine. Are you including strength training on a regular basis? If so, consider if your intensity, duration, and recovery are supportive of your autoimmune symptoms. Adjust accordingly.
If you aren't already including strength training, explore your options on how to best add to your repertoire.