Going through alcohol rehab is such a big achievement for anyone in life. It’s the step to take to move forward and enjoy a healthier, happier life and address the coping mechanisms for stress, which were once to turn to alcohol.
There are many key cogs in a successful recovery following alcohol rehab, from having a daily routine in general to things like therapy, group support and more. Regular physical exercise is also commonly suggested, not only to improve health, but also to help repair the damage that alcohol has caused during your time drinking.
Of course, there are endless exercises that can be taken up to improve your health and become a part of your routine in recovery. But some are better than others. So, if you’re just entering recovery and starting life after rehab, here are some exercises that can be perfect for getting started on…
Walking or Hiking
Naturally, one of the simplest, and most effective, forms of exercise for people in recovery is to start walking or hiking. It suits all fitness levels and you can go at your own pace and distance. What’s more, you don’t need any fancy equipment and across the country there are so many places to head out for a nice, gentle walk. You could even just walk around the block.
Just 30 minutes of walking each day can have a real impact on cardiovascular health, as well as improving things like mood and lowering stress levels.
What can really make a difference is going for a walk or hike within nature. Being surrounded by nature can have a huge impact on mental health and can be perfect for people seeking mindfulness and relaxation after rehab.
Yoga
Many people will be encouraged to practice yoga in rehab and taking that into everyday life post rehab can be so, so vital for a successful recovery. Adding yoga to a routine can help reduce stress, enhance flexibility and improve overall mental clarity, allowing people to tackle their day effectively.
By focusing on deep breathing and meditation within yoga, you can not only ensure you tackle stress effectively, but also manage cravings, which can have a big impact on reducing the risk of relapse.
Hatha and Yin Yoga are two styles that are nice and gentle and can be a good place to start.
Strength Training
Strength training, including weightlifting or bodyweight exercises like push-ups and squats, is a fantastic way to rebuild physical strength and confidence. Alcohol abuse can lead to muscle weakness, reduced bone density, and a weakened immune system; strength training can counteract these effects.
This form of exercise also boosts metabolism, helping to maintain a healthy weight, and releases endorphins, the body’s natural “feel-good” chemicals, which can improve mood and self-esteem.
Swimming
Swimming is a low-impact, full-body workout that’s gentle on the joints but highly effective for improving cardiovascular fitness, muscle strength, and endurance. For individuals in recovery, swimming also has a calming and meditative quality. Being immersed in water can help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation, making it an excellent choice for managing stress.
Many local leisure centres offer swimming sessions or aqua fitness classes, which can also provide opportunities to socialise and build new, healthy relationships.
Team Sports
Joining a local sports team or recreational league can be a great way to stay active while building a supportive social network. Sports such as football, basketball, or tennis offer the benefits of physical exercise along with opportunities to develop friendships and improve communication skills.
Being part of a team fosters a sense of belonging and accountability, which can be especially valuable during recovery. It also provides structured activities to fill time that might otherwise be spent in unhelpful settings.