Exercising post flu

lynn1982

Hi Everyone,
I'm wondering if anyone has tips on how to get back into exercising after an illness. My usual workout regime consists of a quick 30 minute cardio workout five days a week (usually elliptical or running with intervals on the treadmill), three spin classes a week, two weight lifting group classes (power classes), and a yoga class once or twice a week . I'm now getting over a really bad case of the flu (or at least bad for me!) after basically being knocked out for about two weeks. I thought I was feeling well enough to start getting back into things, but after two days of trying to start slowly, I feel like I did back when I was 45 pounds heavier and just getting into exercising regularly. I went for a leisurely bike ride yesterday and was exhausted by the time I got home. Today I thought I'd try the 30 day shred, since I did that about a year ago and I think it's fairly light/easy compared with what I usually do. I now feel like I've had the wind knocked out of me just from that!! Does anyone have experience/tips on how to get back into your usual routine after something like this?

Thanks!

lynn1982

Anyone?

meeper123

Just take it easier for a few days walk or something light like that then if your feeling better try a little more until you can do it like you use too

Gizziemoto

I have asthma and just got over a severe sinus infection and cold. Every time I get sick, I have to start all over like a newbie. I just made it up to where I can walk 20 minutes without feeling faint. I still get dizzy when I move too fast or bend over trying to do yoga.

Start slow and easy with walking and slowly increase it. This is what my doctor has me do. I started at 5 minutes last week. Your body is still healing and you will get back to your normal level, you just need to be very patient with it.

Good luck.

cleback

Listen to your body. It will take a little time to get back into your routine. I don't think there's anything else you realistically do.

Also, make sure you're drinking. Being sick can leave you dehydrated.

jchite84

2 Things from Personal Experience:

1) I eat like **** when I am sick, and so when I am done being sick I need a little nutritional boost to get back to 100%

2) The illness may have passed, but your immune system is probably not fully recovered. Throw in some extra "super-foods" this week, cut back on your workout intensity (working out too much can negatively affect your immune system), but I'd try and do the same kind of workouts.

Generally speaking 2 weeks off is not enough to affect performance, but if you aren't firing on all cylinders it can sure feel like it!

lynn1982

Thanks everyone! I guess I'm just impatient. I like the idea of adding more "super foods"!