exercising after an ED?

Question

I'm currently recovering from anorexia and really want to start working out again. I feel if i do this i might get so consumed by it and get back to that mind set again. Does anyone have any tips for how to healthily work out after a ED

Answer

-if you're on a treadmill/calorie counting machine, cover your "stats" (calories burnt, distance, etc.) with a small towel/face cloth. It's about making your body strong, not burning calories. 
-it's okay to have goals for your body. Just make sure to only let these goals be things that will help you. Ex: a thigh gap serves ZERO purpose. It doesn't make you stronger/healthier. However, aiming for quads that can press 160 ibs is a cool goal to have because you're getting stronger! 
-workout until you want to stop. It's okay to push yourself but don't go into a workout thinking "Im going to run for 1 hour". If you fall short you will be disappointed. Instead think "today I'm going to run and feel good". 
-try doing yoga before more intense workouts. Chances are if you haven't been working out lately, you won't be able to do the things you could when you hit the gym on the regular. A transitional workout program is very helpful. 
-switch it up! If running used to be your go-to, try weight lifting. New you, new routine. 
-Take it easy and remember your body is recovering. Just like a broken leg or strained muscle- it needs time to heal. 
-the first time you hit the gym you'll feel weak. I was lucky enough to have my dad beside me. When I burst into tears after not being able to run more than half a mile, he told me how strong I will be. He told me that my body is now capable of being so much stronger than it ever was. 
-don't be discouraged after your first work out. A healthy body gets stronger far quicker than a disordered one does. 
-listen to fun and happy music

Answer

You should NOT be exercising AT ALL while you are recovering. Even once you are teuly recovered you should wait until you are really solid in that. When you are recovering from an ED, your body needs time to heal. It's not just about weight gain, it's about healing all of the internal damage to your organs, bones, brain, reproductive system, etc. Yes, exercising in recovery can be harmful because it can cause a relapse or keep you stuck in a state of quasi-recovery. But it's also a problem because when you are burning calories through exercise, then your body can't use that energy to heal all of the damage inside your body.

Answer

Also, the fact that you're already concerned that working out might negatively impact your recovery, is 100% a sign that you are NOT ready to return to physical activity.

exercising after an ED?

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