How Physical Fitness Can Help in Addiction Recovery – Guide to Fitness

May is designated as National Physical Fitness and Sports Month by the Federal Occupational Health (FOH), an agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). National Physical Fitness and Sports Month focuses on raising awareness of the importance of active living. It challenges Americans to eat well, get active and get fit during the month May, and beyond.

Benefits of Physical Fitness

Physical activity is essential to health, and the HHS recommends an adult getting a minimum of 2½ hours of physical activity each week that is moderate to intense. Breaking it down to 30 minutes per day for five days per week is one suggestion. Another is choosing many activities in 10 minute increments which accumulate to the recommended amount weekly. Muscle-strengthening exercises are recommended two days or more per week.

According to the HHS, the potential health benefits of regular physical activity include:

• Helping maintain a healthy weight.
• Lowering cholesterol.
• Lowering blood pressure.
• Reducing risk for heart disease, some cancers, diabetes and obesity.

Mental health is also benefited by regular physical activity. Regular activity can calm a person who is anxious, and can pick-up the spirits of a person who is feeling low.

Participating in fitness activities also provide the less tangible benefits of:

• An opportunity to connect-up with others.
• A lift to the spirits.
• A new outlook on a project or problem.

Physical Fitness and Addiction Recovery

Knowledge of the benefits of physical fitness can be used to help addiction recovery. The same elements of a eating well, getting active and getting fit go far in helping a person in recovery.

Eating Well

Poor nutrition and vitamin depletion are closely linked to substance abuse and the addiction lifestyle. A body lacking certain nutrients it needs for energy and health can cause a person to feel moody and tired. Shakiness and pain can also be caused by depletion of certain minerals and vitamins. Even cravings and some withdrawal symptoms stem from poor nutrition and vitamin depletion that follows substance abuse.

A nutritious diet supplemented with plenty of fresh vegetables (not overcooked), along with a regimen of vitamins and minerals, drinking plenty of water, and limiting “empty calories” such as sweets and sugary foods are simple basics. Further research and study, and consulting with a qualified nutritionist or holistic health practitioner to get a tailor-made nutrition program is another option.

Getting Active

Getting active helps overcome the lethargy, inactivity and poor physical condition stemming from substance abuse. Physical condition is improved gradually, and choosing an activity which is enjoyable and suitable for one’s physical condition is a good place to start.

Gradually increasing activity level and the duration of exercise can help to build-up strength and improve physical condition in a way that is comfortable, and gives a person a feeling of success and accomplishment.

Getting Fit

As the body repairs itself from the ravages of substance abuse through good nutrition and consistent exercise, a person in recovery can set their sights on increasing the level of fitness, and reaping the physical and mental benefits.

Joining others in team sports or at the gym is a way to build health and wellbeing while enjoying the camaraderie of others with shared goals.

Adhering to a physical fitness routine, eating nutritious foods and not skipping meals, and keeping a well-ordered personal schedule can help the person in recovery feel better both mentally and physically, and help provide a foundation for long-term sobriety.