Credit: Getty
Strong Women
How to work out with a chronic illness: “Why more isn’t always better when it comes to exercising post-flare up”
4 years ago
Living with a chronic illness can be difficult at the best of times, and exercise is just another complicated part of the puzzle. Writer Chloe Johnson shares the methods she’s found helpful in her own health journey.
I have no mystical deck of cards, but I can tell the future. I feel the nerve pain start to work its way around me like a vice and I know, with certainty, that tonight will be painful. I will not be able to take off my own clothes.
My fate continues: for the next few days, my body will revolt. A low-grade fever will set in and other symptoms, like devoted fans, will follow. I had taken a day trip out, walking around York’s cobblestones and this was the consequence. Other days, I will attempt a long walk and come back feeling refreshed, with my muscles sore because I made them sore for once.
This is not uncommon for those with a chronic illness. What can work out one day, can leave you bedridden the next. Add on top of this the stressors of constant doctors’ appointments, symptom tracking, medication, and it can be difficult not to feel like you’re barely treading water.
undefined
By signing up you agree to occasionally receive offers and promotions from Stylist. Newsletters may contain online ads and content funded by carefully selected partners. Don’t worry, we’ll never share or sell your data. You can opt-out at any time. For more information read Stylist’s Privacy Policy
Thank you!
You’re now subscribed to all our newsletters. You can manage your subscriptions at any time from an email or from a MyStylist account.