For athletes and regular exercisers, catching COVID can be particularly inconvenient. Missing workouts and training sessions can set you back, so, understandably, you’d want to get back to it as soon as possible.
But how do you know when you’re ready to head back to the gym after an infection?
Today, we’ll discuss what you should do to go back to sports and exercise after a COVID case.
What If I Was Exposed to COVID-19?
If you are notified that you have been exposed to COVID-19, you should restrict your movements and isolate yourself as much as possible. This will help prevent the spread of the virus and protect those around you.
To maintain your workout or training routine, you may have to make some adjustments. You won’t be able to go to the gym or public parks, so look for ways to adapt your workout into a home workout.
While you’re in quarantine, pay attention to any developing symptoms. If you start feeling sick, discontinue your workouts until you can get tested.
What if I Tested Positive?
If you tested positive after exposure to the virus, you need to isolate yourself completely. You should stay in one room while sick. Family members should use a separate bathroom, if possible. If you must leave your isolation area, make sure to wear a mask.
You should not exercise or play sports while you have COVID, even if you feel fine. Overworking the lungs, which are being attacked by the virus, may make your infection worse or extend your recovery.
When Can I Start Working Out or Training Again?
It’s understandable that you’re eager to get back to your workout routine, but remember that patience is the key. Rushing your recovery could set you back. Instead, you should focus on improving your health in other ways, like eating vitamin- and mineral-rich foods to boost your immune system, staying hydrated, and getting plenty of rest.
For any severity of COVID, wait at least ten days before returning to the gym. Then, keep an eye on new symptoms and your general condition. You might have extra fatigue after a period of not working out, so begin slowly. If you have a severe case of COVID, you should get cleared by your doctor to start working out again.
Getting back to sports and exercise may be a priority for you but remember that you should stay home if you have symptoms. If your COVID symptoms aren’t going away or you think you might still have COVID-19, head to your nearest urgent care center for a rapid COVID test.
Patients that need to consider getting a sports physical, COVID-19 test, or injury treatment should visit AFC Urgent Care Aberdeen for fast urgent care! We provide care to walk-in patients at our walk-in clinic, so you don’t need an appointment. Just visit us or call today for more questions!
