How Exercise Benefits People with Inflammatory Bowel Disease and Tips for Safe Workouts

Research consistently shows that regular physical activity can lessen the frequency and severity of symptoms in people with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which includes Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.

Restorative practices such as yoga and Pilates also help lower stress—a key trigger for many patients.

Exercising during a flare can feel daunting. Dr. David Padua, MD, PhD, a gastroenterologist at UCLA and director of the Padua Laboratory, observes that many of his patients avoid activity because systemic inflammation causes fatigue, anemia, and occasional GI bleeding.

“When you’re dealing with ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s, the body can feel completely run‑down, making exercise seem impossible,” Dr. Padua explains.

Yet experiences vary. Some patients stay active with tennis, jiu‑jitsu, or even marathon training, says Dr. Shannon Chang, MD, of NYU Langone Health. Ultimately, a person’s ability to move depends on disease activity and overall health.

Why Exercise Matters for IBD

1. Symptom reduction

Although data are still emerging, several studies link higher activity levels with fewer flare‑ups, especially in Crohn’s disease. One investigation published in *Inflammatory Bowel Disease* found that moderate exercise was associated with a lower risk of future flares among patients in remission.

Dr. Chang cautions that it’s unclear whether remission enables exercise or exercise helps maintain remission, but the consensus is clear: moderate activity is beneficial.

2. Anti‑inflammatory stress relief

Stress is a well‑documented trigger for IBD flares. Life changes—new jobs, moves, relationship strain—often precede symptom spikes, Dr. Padua notes.

Mind‑body practices such as yoga improve the stress response, which can, in turn, dampen inflammation. A review in *BioMed Research International* reported that regular moderate exercise strengthens immune function, improves psychological health, and enhances quality of life for people with IBD.

3. Stronger bones

Long‑term steroid use and malabsorption of calcium and vitamin D put many IBD patients at risk for osteoporosis. Weight‑bearing activities and resistance training stimulate bone remodeling, helping preserve density.

Getting Started Safely

1. Consult your healthcare team

Before beginning any new regimen, discuss your plan with a gastroenterologist or primary‑care provider. Dr. Padua advises, “Patients should always confirm with their medical provider what level of activity is appropriate for their current condition.”

2. Find a sustainable balance

A common pitfall is the all‑or‑nothing mindset. Over‑exertion can worsen fatigue, while excessive caution may lead to deconditioning. Personal trainer Lindsay Lombardi, who works with clients coping with GI issues, reminds patients, “You don’t have to treat yourself like a glass doll.”

3. Choose circuit‑style strength training

For those interested in weight work, circuit training keeps the heart rate elevated without the maximal loads of powerlifting. Start with low‑impact, body‑weight sessions before progressing.

4. Begin cardio intervals gently

Low‑ to moderate‑impact interval training—such as brisk walking, easy cycling, or a beginner spin class—allows you to gauge tolerance and gradually build endurance.

5. Prioritize restorative movement

Mind‑body disciplines like yoga and Pilates foster the gut‑brain connection, reduce stress, and include motions that gently massage the abdominal region. Lombardi notes, “These restorative approaches are often the most healing for the digestive tract.”

6. Listen to your body

Experiment with different modalities. If a spin class aggravates symptoms, try barre or a gentle yoga flow. During a flare, consider scaling back intensity or swapping to a restorative practice. Consistency, not intensity, is the most important factor for gut health.

In short, staying active—whether through weight training, cardio, or restorative movement—can play a vital role in managing IBD. Tailor your routine to your current health, stay attuned to your body’s signals, and keep your healthcare team in the loop.

Jamie Friedlander is a freelance writer and editor whose health pieces have appeared in The Cut, Chicago Tribune, Racked, Business Insider, and Success Magazine. When she’s not writing, she enjoys traveling, green tea, and exploring Etsy. Visit her website and follow her on Twitter.