Exercise: Staying fit

Exercise is very important for your health. It is an important part of a healthy lifestyle as it is beneficial to your immune system, and improves your physical and emotional wellbeing and mental health. 

Why exercise?

Even though exercise doesn’t fight HIV, exercise can have the following physical benefits:

• Improved health of heart and lungs
• Increased muscle mass
• Increased energy levels
• Stronger bones
• Improved body shape
• A good appetite
• Better sleeping patterns
• Improved processing of sugars
• More flexibility in muscle and joints.
• Boost self-esteem,
• Reduce your risk of stress and depression

Here are some useful tips to consider before starting to exercise 

• Don’t over-do things.
• Set small, achievable goals.
• Try to prioritize exercise and make it part of your regular routine.
• Exercise with others 
• Do exercise you enjoy.
• If you join a gym, make sure you feel comfortable in it. Don’t feel intimidated –
• Listen to your body and rest if you are tired. 
• Don’t exercise if you feel sick.
• Don’t punish yourself or feel guilty if you miss a session or do less than you hoped.
• Vary your exercise routine.
• Enjoy yourself!