Has your doctor told you to focus on gentle stretching for exercise?
It may not be in your best interest to only be stretching or walking.
I know it can be tricky to exercise when your adrenals are stressed and you are fatigued and in pain.
Creating the optimal exercise program with autoimmunity can be a challenge!
But, did you know that resistance/strength training is exactly what your body needs?
On my
Inspired Living with Autoimmunity Podcast, I recently interviewed Dr. Emily Kiberd, who is an expert on this topic and I wanted to highlight some of the takeaways for you.
Dr. Kiberd specializes in exercising with Hashimoto's. And everything she teaches applies to all of us with autoimmunity.
Building muscle (specifically muscle contraction) creates many effects in the body, and sends many signals.
One of them is anti-inflammatory.
Who doesn't want to reduce inflammation?!
No matter your starting point, proper strength training doesn't take much time.
It is not about low weight and lots of reps...it is actually the opposite.
Higher weight and fewer reps does the trick to build muscle.
If you do have Hashi's, or low thyroid, this is the ticket for losing the extra weight you might be carrying. Tissue turnover takes longer with low thyroid.
Aerobic exercise won't get the results you are looking for.
The fun part, building muscle supports metabolism and can help prevent cognitive decline.
Feeling motivated?
Dr. Kiberd has created an online program called Thyroid Strong that is fantastic!
She guides us through kettle bell training while modifying and teaching through a Hashimoto's/autoimmune lens.
The program is designed to support the adrenals and the immune system.
You can
check it out here.
If you already include resistance training in your weekly routine, HOORAY!
If you don't, I highly recommend you start NOW!
If you have the know how and confidence to jump in safely and create a routine that supports you, go for it!
If you are like me, and want the guidance and expertise of a doctor who knows her stuff, look into
Thyroid Strong.
Take Action
You guessed it! Start a resistance training routine this week! If you already have one, hit reply and share your routine with me. If you are going to start, let me know what you decided to do.