Exercising During a Fast: Benefits & Considerations

Exercise should be kept to a minimum during times of fasting. However, you can still actively assist your metabolism.

Things You'll Need

• Athletic Shoes
• Exercise Mats

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Instructions

• 1

  Understand that fasting is a time for the body to repair itself internally, and that exercise can distract your body's attention from the inside to the outside.

• 2

  Realize also that during a fast your body lacks many of the nutrients and calories necessary for a workout to be beneficial to your body, and therefore exercise can be detrimental during a fast.

• 3

  Avoid strenuous workouts or heavy labor during your fast. If you have a normal regimen you can't stand to quit for a few days, cut it down by more than half.

• 4

  Do light, low-impact exercise: walking, gardening, or light work.

• 5

  Do simple yoga exercises to help balance and stimulate your inner organs.

• 6

  Stretch and breathe. Do not underestimate the healing power of deep, conscious breathing.

• 7

  Develop and maintain a regular exercise schedule after completing your fast. Exercise is essential to proper nutrient absorption and triggers endorphins that help you feel good.