Exercising

[tanukihat]

So I'm currently coming out of a flare up that has lasted longer than any other flare up I've ever had (like a year and a half of D's and stomach cramps and an average weight of 110 pounds).

With a combination of 6MP and magical Prednisone, I've gained about 20 pounds in the past month and I'm developing something I've never had before - a fat belly. I'm a chronic lightweight, when I'm healthy I usually clock in at around 135 pounds, height 5"10'.

I don't have any plans to do any exercise until I'm off the Pred, but I feel like if things continue this way I have two options - get fat and gross-looking, or seriously consider hitting the gym for the first time in my life.

Should I consult with a nutritionist before doing any heavy exercise? A kinesiologist? A sports medicine specialist? Or am I overthinking it?

 

[ThanksP]

Pred always give me a fat belly, it's part of the hate/hate relationship I have with the medication. In fact, I think the technical term is "apple belly". I suppose that's supposed to make it sound cuter than it really is. I notice that within a month of being off Pred, my stomach flattens out again. And watch your carb intake because that adds to the Pred belly. So have a little faith, I don't think you'll be a flabby mess the rest of your life.

 

[Jessi]

I am just like you - chronic lightweight. Same weight, same height as you. Now, off of pred, I weigh 139 - 141. I am a little frustrated, to say the least.

I have started with walking just a little at a time. Now I am able to walk much more, and even climb or hike a little bit. I used to run/hike 8 miles every morning. I really want that back.

Also, some light yoga helps, slowly adding the more difficult poses.

Good luck!

 

[Brit]

I felt the same way. I was 105 before I was sick then stopes to 80 but on pred I gained 6 pounds in like 4 days. I was a little worried about it at the time and since I had so much energy from pred I decided to try the gym out. I've never been one Really for it but I love it now! I got a great trainer that's actually in grad school for radiology so he knows a ton about crohns and he works with me. I find that having a set meeting with him motivates me to go even if I feel a little down. And I always feel great afterward! A little tip if you do go you prob don't want too do to much cardio. Concentrate more on strength training that has really helped me.