It is so frustrating to have a good fitness routine going, only to see it crumble because of sickness. I have been battling a severe flair-up of costochondritis for about two weeks now. The inflammation and pain have prevented me from doing any form of exercise, let alone light housework, without exacerbating the problem.
I have also had to come to the realization that I likely suffer from a chronic form of it, so this won’t be the last time my life is interrupted. I guess it helps me to somewhat understand what others go through who have conditions like fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue syndrome.
Through this experience I have also come to learn that I need to have a plan in place, because what ended up happening wasn’t good. I sabotaged my fitness efforts even worse than was necessary. Hopefully this blog will help others who deal with any type of chronic condition that can interrupt your fitness routine.
The first part of your plan is developing the mindset that you won’t let it stop you from living a fit lifestyle. Having a chronic condition shouldn’t become an excuse to never exercise.
However, it may mean that for a time you will need to either stop or seriously limit the amount you do. Once you can accept this and deal with it, then when it happens you are more prepared.
Since I couldn’t exercise, I fell into a funk. I started eating junk food because I thought, “What does it matter?” I was looking at my inability to exercise as a reason to just go ahead and blow everything.
I can’t even tell you what I eat…it is so embarrassing to even think about. But as I look back, I realize that a lack of preparation is what made me vulnerable.
So you need to plan ahead of time that when your chronic condition is at its worst, that is when you will eat the best. Will this be easy? Certainly not…but sometimes just planning ahead of time can make all the difference.
Then, when you are finally starting to feel better, make a plan to get back into your routine slowly. Do a little at a time. Don’t just jump right back into your normal schedule. Allow yourself the time to fully recover.
What are some other ways that you can plan and prepare for a flair-up of your chronic condition so that your fitness efforts aren’t wasted?
Related Articles:
Should You Exercise When Sick?
The 10% Rule for Running Doesn’t Prevent Injuries
When Sickness Prevents You from Exercising
Photo by Perfecto Insecto on Flickr