Community Forum

Have a question, or want to share your own tips and experiences? Join the discussion in the community forum. You must be registered to participate. Our forums are moderated by Crohn's & Colitis Foundation staff to facilitate a safe environment.

Fitness will change your life part 2


Sun, May 31, 2015 12:02 PM



My goal is to provide motivation and show what has helped me deal with it. I think of exercise as my natural antidepressant. That’s one of the reason it’s so important for me to stay physically active, since as a person living with Crohn’s disease, sometimes it’s hard to keep a positive outlook. Exercise can help  you feel more upbeat, get better in tune with your body, and help prepare for your potential obstacles in your life with Crohn’s. Evan if a bad flare has exhausted you, or you feel especially drained following surgery, remember that resuming some form of enjoyable exercise is a sign that you are returning back to independence and your self-care routine. Even though finding time to exercise can be challenging, it might be good motivation to try recalling what it felt like to be sick and unable to exercise. Remember that feeling when you find yourself unenthusiastic about exercising. Any time that you can spend strengthening your body is a privilege, one that Crohn’s can sometimes deprive you of. Take advantage of those opportunities when you can work out!
 
“WHAT TYPE OF BODY DO YOU WANT TO LIVE IN?”  You can decide to control your disease instead of letting it control you. It’s difficult at first but, as with everything, practice makes perfect. You will notice improvements both in the severity of symptoms and your enjoyment of life.

FPO jack31373
Joined May 31, 2015

Sun, July 26, 2015 2:10 PM

 Reply posted for jack31373.

I 100% agree that staying active is great. I'm a dancer and continued dancing by becoming a Zumba Instructor. There was many ups and downs while teaching my classes, but I never let it stop me from doing what I love. At one point, I became physically ill and my body was weak and I couldn't move. This was devastating to me and hearing it from others that I had to stop, felt like the end of the world. I slowly started doing small exercises to increase strength including, trying Shaun T's Insanity program. Although it was hard to keep up with him in the videos and I had to stop to use the restroom like every 5 minutes, I still continued to push my way through it. I finished the program and have gained more strength in my arms. 


FPO brubin
Joined Jul 6, 2015

Related Topics

Weight and Eating
Author Image KelseyShoup
Joined Sep 26, 2020

Hello so I've been struggling to get my weight....

read more

Nausea and Vomiting with ...
Author Image crystal73d
Joined Aug 4, 2021

Hi all- I have been diagnose with Crohns disease ....

read more

Help losing weight
Author Image Twinsnana
Joined Feb 13, 2022

You're definitely not alone. I have Ulcerative....

read more