Why Stopping Exercise When You Face Health Issues Might Be the Worst Thing You Can Do
It’s a story we hear all the time. Someone starts working out, only to stop when they face a health challenge like joint pain, an injury, high blood pressure, or even just feeling rundown.
It seems logical, right? Rest, recover, and deal with the issue first. But here’s the thing: stopping movement might actually make the issue worse. Or, at the very least you’ll trade one ailment for another.
Movement is Medicine
Most health professionals agree that exercise is one of the best (research concludes that it is THE BEST) tools to prevent, manage, and improve a variety of health conditions.
- Joint Pain: Movement strengthens the muscles around your joints, reducing stress on them. It also improves flexibility and range of motion. Avoiding exercise often makes joints stiffer and less mobile.
- Heart Disease: Exercise improves cardiovascular health by strengthening your heart, reducing blood pressure, and improving circulation. Stopping exercise can lead to further complications.
- Mental Health: Struggling with stress, anxiety, or depression? Regular movement boosts endorphins, your body’s natural mood lifters, and reduces symptoms of mental health challenges.
- Injuries: We’re all going to encounter some type of shoulder injury or back pain eventually and these are really easy to train around. When my back is bothering me I focus on what doesn’t hurt and upper body. Shoulder surgery? Time for those legs to get jacked.
The truth is, many conditions improve with tailored, intentional movement rather than complete rest. Complete rest leads us to gain weight, reduces mental health and increases depression, and leads to poor overall health.
Why People Stop
It’s easy to understand why people pause their fitness routines when they don’t feel well. Health issues can be intimidating, and there’s a fear of making things worse. But this mindset often leads to a downward spiral:
- Loss of strength and mobility
- Increased stiffness and discomfort
- Slower recovery and progress
When you stop moving, the body begins to lose the strength and endurance that could have helped manage or prevent the health issue in the first place. Exercise also increases blood flow which aids in recovery, not to mention the feel good endorphins!
How to Keep Moving Safely
If you’re dealing with a health issue, you don’t need to push through pain or stick to the same workout routine. Instead:
- Consult a Professional: Work with a personal trainer who can tailor exercises to your current abilities.
- Start Small: Two 30 or 45 minute sessions per week.
- Adjust Intensity: Scale back, but don’t stop entirely. Focus on low-impact exercises or movements that feel good for your body.
- Be Consistent: Even if you’re not doing your “normal” routine, consistent movement is key to long-term health. Remember, fitness isn’t something to turn on or off but rather turn it up or turn it down a little.
You’re Stronger Than You Think
Health challenges are part of life. The key is learning how to adapt and keep moving. At One Life Personal Training, we specialize in helping clients overcome obstacles—whether it’s an old injury, a recent diagnosis, or simply the stress of daily life.
Don’t let health challenges derail your fitness journey. Movement is medicine, and we’re here to help you find the right kind.
Tim
PS. If you’re interested here are 3 ways we can help:
- Book a free no sweat intro here to come into the gym so we can talk more about you and your goals.
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