The Connection Between Physical Fitness and Addiction Recovery

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Physical fitness in addiction recovery plays a significant role in managing withdrawal symptoms, reducing stress, and promoting overall well-being. There are a number of factors to consider when trying to understand and overcome addiction. Reconnecting to the body and breath is an important part of the recovery process that should not be overlooked. Creating a daily routine that includes movement can greatly improve your ability to maintain sobriety and stay on the path of recovery. 

This blog explores the benefits of regular physical activity for those in recovery, types of exercises recommended for different stages of recovery, and how incorporating fitness can support the recovery process.

Benefits of Regular Physical Activity for Those in Recovery

Exercise is a key component in managing the stress and emotions that can come up during the early stages of recovery. Releasing toxins, clearing the mind, and letting go of stuck emotions are all benefits of moving the body on a daily basis. 

Studies show that withdrawal symptoms can decrease significantly with light exercise. Clients have reported better sleep, less anxiety, and a decrease in addiction cravings post workout. 

When you exercise, your heart rate goes up increasing blood flow throughout the body and to the brain activating a release of hormones that aid in mood stabilization. When endorphins are flowing we experience less stress, anxiety, and feelings of depression. Working out is one of the quickest and most effective ways of optimizing brain chemistry. 

Pairing exercise and recovery is very important in repairing the body after a prolonged period of substance abuse. Exercise helps strengthen the immune system circulating oxygenated blood and white blood cells throughout the body that aid in disease detection and prevention. 

It is important to always listen to your body and not overdue or push yourself too hard in the initial detoxification process. The more training and recovery you accomplish the more your body will be ready to take on. 

Types of Exercises Recommended for Different Stages of Recovery

Just as sobriety is a journey, so is fitness. When we start incorporating daily movement it is important to build up your routine as you gain more strength through consistent training. Pushing yourself too hard before you are ready can cause injuries and setbacks. Here are some recommended exercises for different stages of recovery:

Early Recovery 

Take it slow as you ease into exercise during addiction recovery. Reconnecting to the body through breath and slow intentional movement is perfect for early stage recovery. 

• Walking
• Gentle yoga
• Stretching
  
  

Mid-Recovery 

Once you are through the initial detoxification process and have begun to feel the positive effects of sobriety take hold you are ready to push your physical boundaries further as you begin to build muscle and stamina. 

• Running
• Swimming
• Strength training
  
  

Long-Term Recovery 

Now that you are detoxed and feeling the effects of consistent exercise paired with recovery, you are ready to take your workout out into the world. Interacting with others and your surroundings can be a great way to begin integrating yourself back into the community. 

• Group sports
• Advanced fitness classes
• Hiking
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No matter where you are starting your journey of physical fitness during your recovery it is important to understand what addiction does to your body and to work with a team of professionals to support you in reaching your goals.

How Hollywood Hills Recovery Emphasizes Physical Health During Recovery

We know that in order to successfully treat addiction we need to take into consideration the entire person's needs on a physical, mental, and spiritual level. We believe in living a healthy lifestyle and know first hand how much of an aid exercise plays in your recovery process. You can stay on-top of your fitness routine with our gym or unlock new motivation with our on-site personal trainer. We offer group training sessions as well as private one on one classes. We have support and amenities for a wide array of physical fitness needs no matter where you are in your journey.

Incorporating Physical Fitness into Daily Recovery Routine

Here are some tips that you can use to start committing to more physical activity for your sobriety: 

• Start slow: Create an easy schedule that you can stick to, consistency is key
• Set goals: Setting achievable goals will help you to stay focused and build your confidence
• Have fun: Don’t get caught doing the exact same thing everyday, mix it up to keep it fresh and keep your mind occupied with new things to learn
• Find a buddy: Whether it is a friend, a personal trainer, a pet, or even a fitness app, find a way to hold yourself accountable that keeps you motivated toward your goal! 

We have established that there are endless benefits to incorporating physical fitness into your recovery process. Setting goals and committing to moving your body every day will not only improve your physical body but it will have a lasting positive impact on your mental, emotional, and spiritual health. I encourage you to set a small goal and get started one step at a time. 

Call Hollywood Hills Recovery today and take the first step toward your new healthy life.