As the world navigated through the COVID-19 pandemic, many people have found themselves struggling to maintain a consistent exercise routine. With lockdowns and social distancing measures limiting access to gyms and other fitness facilities, many resorted to home workouts or simply given up on exercise altogether. However, as the world has slowly returned to a new normal, infection rates are higher than ever, and people are still navigating their way around a return to formal exercise. Let’s discuss the benefits and risks of resuming exercise post-COVID.
When should I start exercising again?
It depends largely on individual circumstances. Depending on the severity of the illness, it may be necessary to wait several weeks or even months before resuming physical activity. Most people will feel well enough after a week or two and should then resume a graded return to their normal exercise intensity, duration and frequency. As with all health complications and exercise, an Exercise Physiologist will be able to guide you through.
2. Can I exercise while still symptomatic?
Exercising with Covid symptoms is a personal decision that everyone must make. On one hand, regular exercise is essential for maintaining physical and mental health, boosting immunity, and reducing the risk of chronic disease. On the other hand, exercising while symptomatic with COVID-19 can exacerbate these symptoms and increase the risk of serious complications such as pneumonia, myocarditis (inflammation of the heart), and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). These complications can be life-threatening, especially in individuals who are older or have underlying health conditions.
3. How long do I need to wait to exercise after a vaccine?
The timing of resuming exercise after a COVID-19 vaccine varies depending on the type of vaccine and the individual's response to it. In general, it is recommended to wait 24-48 hours after receiving a vaccine before engaging in any strenuous exercise. This is because the body needs time to recover and build immunity after receiving the vaccine. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional if you experience any irregular symptoms after receiving a vaccine.
4. Can exercise prevent me from getting COVID?
While regular exercise has been shown to boost immunity and reduce the risk of chronic disease, there is no evidence to suggest that it can prevent COVID-19 infection. However, maintaining a healthy lifestyle through regular exercise, healthy eating, and adequate sleep can help strengthen the immune system, which may reduce the severity of COVID-19 symptoms if infection does occur.
5. Am I still likely to catch COVID at the gym?
While it is impossible to eliminate the risk of COVID-19 transmission in any public setting, including gyms, there are measures in place to minimize this risk. At Allied Movement, our booking systems limit the number of people in the facility at any given time which reduces your chances of catching illness and ensures the best possible experience each session.
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