SHOULD YOU EXERCISE - YES OR NO ?
This is another one of those areas that Fibro sufferers debate on.
We are told that we should exercise to keep the joints etc moving and keep the weight off, a good idea in theory, but when you feel exhausted and are in pain at the first step how can you exercise.
I've heard of FM sufferers being put through their paces for hours at the Gym in physiotherapy, just to be feeling far worse days later.
The main point is the same as the general rule of Fibro -
PACE YOURSELF.
Just 5 or 10 mins exercise a day is better than nothing. If going to a gym is good for you, that’s great, just don't overdo it. Don't try to be clever and keep up with the 'normal' folk - remember you do have Fibro and it will kick you back if you overdo things. (I know I've been there)
For most of us, a full workout at the gym is not feasible, but you can still have your own 'gym' at home. This can mean getting hold of some suitable apparatus - if you have the room i.e. a treadmill, a rowing machine, an exercise bike etc and just doing a 10 minute workout each day on whatever equipment suits you that day.
Otherwise, just get yourself a 'gym ball' one of those oversized blow up exercise balls., and some stretchy elastic straps. These are great to use when standing up to exercise is not always easy. You can do your stretches using the straps as you lie on the floor, or sit on a chair, and the ball is great for sitting on or laying over to exercise, as you can stretch, and do sit ups etc., without putting pressure on the back or knees etc.
There are a lot of simple small gadgets out there as well to help you do just a little work out each day. For those of you with a Wi machine, the Wi fit can be of benefit, but can be tiring, so choose the exercises with care, and again don't overdo it.
Fitness videos/DVD’s can be good. Again choose with care. If you find that the warm up sequences are enough, fine stick to just that each day.
Walking is good, but can be tiring, so again don't push yourself if you are already feeling worn out. A little stroll once a day is better than nothing., if you can manage that.
Swimming is always recommended by the doctors, in a nice warm pool, but nice warm pools are hard to find, and struggling to swim in tepid or chilly water is not ideal., however sitting in a warm Jacuzzi is, and you can still stretch out if you manage to time it so there is no one else in there !
Similarly exercising in a lovely warm bath can help. Just do a few stretches, lifting the legs, bending the knees etc can still be of benefit
Finally, look at other types of exercise that might suit you, yoga and Thai Chi are both very good for relaxing and balance, and although slow, do exercise all the limbs and muscles. If you are looking at something like Yoga, unless you are experienced and happy to work from a DVD at home, go to a class, but choose wisely.
Many of the yoga classes at sports complexes are full of very fit people who can do all the yoga positions with ease and can make you feel bad about yourself when you struggle.
Find a nice group at the local church hall etc., (I attend one in a scout hut) where you can explain to the teacher your issues, and do not feel bad about sitting out of certain exercises, or simply adapting them to suit you. Where you are with like minded people who all struggle in various ways. The creaking and groaning that goes on at my class is hilarious and no one is afraid to just do what they can.
Any exercise tips you have - let us know
