Unfortunately, COVID-19 has continued to affect our communities and disrupt our daily routines. As the virus has evolved since its pandemic status, many questions are left up to debate. One question that many people have is whether or not it is safe to exercise when infected with COVID-19. The short answer is that, in most cases, it is safe to work out as long as certain precautions are taken. This blog will explore some important safeguards those who wish to exercise with COVID should take.
For same-day COVID-19 testing and treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Stoneham. Our team of healthcare providers make the testing process quick and easy. We can help clear up any additional questions you may have about the symptoms, treatment, and recovery process.
Safely Exercising with COVID-19
Routine exercise is a large part of many people’s daily routine. Whether you’re determined to be in the gym everyday, or simply enjoy a jog around your neighborhood, it’s important to find some time in your day to get your body moving. However, COVID-19 can cause multiple uncomfortable symptoms that can make it hard to find the motivation to work out– such as fatigue. If you’re sick with the virus, it’s okay to take a break from your exercise routine and focus on your recovery. However, if you’re feeling up to it, make sure to follow some important guidelines and recommendations.
If you’re not asymptomatic– not experiencing any symptoms– it is safe to work out. It’s important to be aware that the virus can attack the respiratory system, so take it easy when getting active. COVID-19 can make you tired and cause breathing problems. If you’re having any abnormal trouble breathing when working out, it’s advised to take a break and focus on resting. In general, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that people with COVID-19 should avoid all non-essential activities, including exercise, until their symptoms and infection have subsided.
Avoid Close Contact
While it may be safe for most people to engage in moderate-intensity exercise, such as brisk walking or cycling, keep in mind that it's crucial to follow social distancing measures. This means staying at least 6 feet away from others, wearing a mask when around others, and washing your hands frequently. Consider at-home workouts as opposed to the gym, in order to prevent the virus from further spreading in your community.
It is also important to consider the environment in which you are exercising. If you are working out indoors, choose an airy space away from crowded areas. If you are exercising outdoors, try to choose a location where you can maintain social distance from others.
COVID-19 and Heart Inflammation
Studies have shown that some COVID-19 patients can develop myocarditis, a condition in which the heart muscle swells due to inflammation. This is a life-threatening condition that can be triggered by high-intensity workouts. People with myocarditis will typically experience difficulty breathing, dizziness, and chest pain. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it is very important to stop your workout sessions and consult with a healthcare provider. Additionally, if you’re immunocompromised, have underlying health conditions, or are susceptible to heart complications, we recommend not to work out during your course of infection with COVID-19.
Visit AFC Urgent Care Stoneham for COVID-19 Testing
It may be best to refrain from working out when you’ve tested positive for COVID. Getting back to your active lifestyle should be gradual, as the recovery process can look different for each person. For same-day COVID-19 testing– both diagnostic and antibody– visit AFC Urgent Care Stoneham today. The clinic is open seven days a week with walk-in visits welcomed. For additional questions about COVID-19, or other services we provide, please contact us directly at (781) 279-4000.
