Dear Diva: After a recent bought (2 weeks) with bronchitis, I am ready to get back to working out. But a few hours after proclaiming myself heeled - I am exhausted after just doing a few task around the house. I am ready to workout - but I do not want a relapse so I decided to do a little research and grab some tips for easing back into my fitness routine - And of course I am sharing my knowledge with you!
WHAT? - Don't work out until you are actually better or you can slow the healing process! Your immune system needs all that extra energy to fight off what has been ailing you. A Washington Post article says I should wait 2 weeks after being ill to start exercising or risk relapse. While I initially thought this was a little long, I can attest that though my body feels better my oxygen levels are still labored, so even small amounts of movement ware me out.
WHAT? - Each week missed working out can slow your cardiovascular progress by 30% according to SHAPE magazine.
Silver Lining is that you can return to your former cardio levels quicker since you were already conditioned. Take a couple weeks to build back up or try a variety of new routines to keep yourself mentally stimulated as you build back your strength.
WHAT? - Hydrate REST Hydrate REST Hydrate! No surprise here every article says hydrate and get plenty of rest. Medication and the illness itself can zap precious hydration and many medications are very high in sodium so hydration makes sense. And of course getting plenty of rest is important - Rest is when your body does it's most repair work, so along with the recommended 7-8 hours, I found I also need a 1-2 hours of rest in the middle of the day to feel fresh. **For the youthful fun of it I froze Gatorade in ice cube trays and noshed on them as a hydrating snack while resting and watching endless hours of Law n Order.
*http://www.shape.com/fitness/tips/how-to-exercise-after-being-sick
http://www.delightsanddelectables.com/
www.livestrong.com
www.washingtonpost.com
