Using the Gym to Improve Overall Health During Recovery
Many of the benefits of regular gym visits are even more advantageous for individuals attending our inpatient program. Part of our comprehensive addiction treatment includes time in the gym. Our gym facilities feature a range of equipment so you can get in your cardio or weight training or participate in a variety of classes. Whatever your ability or interest level, our team of trained professionals are available to help you exercise safely and effectively, so you can improve every aspect of your health while on your journey to recovery.
Table of Contents
Proven Benefits of Working Out
Regular exercise improves overall fitness and helps protect the body against a wide array of illnesses and diseases. This is particularly beneficial for individuals in recovery. Improved health can reduce the need for over-the-counter or prescription medications. Routinely fitting in time at the gym can also reduce the risk of injury.
Working out can provide numerous benefits, including:
- Stress reduction
- Improved sleep
- More positive outlook / mood
- Improved self-esteem
- Increased energy
- Stronger immune system
- Help prevent relapse
The “Feel Good” Impact
During exercise, the body releases endorphins in the brain. These are commonly known as the feel-good hormones and they knock out feelings of stress, anxiety, and depression while creating a sense of happiness and wellbeing. Recovery is hard and some days will be more stressful than others, but working out is a great remedy to the tension and challenges individuals in treatment face.
Rest is Essential
Rest is very important. The body and mind need downtime to recover and recoup. Oftentimes, people abuse drugs or alcohol in an effort to get rest, but this fails to deliver the intended results. Inpatient care can be particularly demanding and ultimately tiring. Exercise promotes good, quality rest. This rest in turn, promotes energy and mental clarity. When an individual is rested they are better equipped to take on whatever challenges come their way, both while in treatment and in life in general.
Long-Term Success for Recovery
Working out in the gym can be a valuable resource during substance abuse treatment, but these healthy habits can have a positive long-term impact. Exercise is a healthy and effective way to release stress. Continuing to use exercise as a stress relief method long after progressing through inpatient treatment can help individuals stay committed to their health and their sobriety. Studies have also shown that people in recovery who routinely exercise are less likely to relapse.
Recovery is a lifelong commitment and individuals will always have to face different challenges. Exercise is a practice individuals can use to safely and effectively deal with the stress of life and recovery. This is a valuable skill that can help create long-term success.
Learning How to Live Healthy
Exercise is proven to aid in substance abuse recovery when used as part of a complete treatment plan. Working out helps individuals regain control of their body and their life while also improving their overall health and wellbeing. The skills and habits established during our inpatient program can help individuals throughout the rest of their recovery and set them on a course for a happy and healthy life.
