Doctors from both the Mayo Clinic and the University of Maryland Medical Center recommend exercise for people with colitis. Exercise contributes to your overall health and can also help normalize bowel movements and reduce stress that can cause flare ups. Many colitis patients are embarrassed to exercise because of the threat of gas or sudden trips to the bathroom, but the ways around that are easy, and there's no reason to avoid something that can help you feel better.
Start Slow
Talk to your doctor before you begin an exercise program. Depending upon your level of fitness and the severity of your colitis, he may have specific suggestions. Leaping into an intense fitness regimen may leave you overtired, overheated and dehydrated, which can actually make your symptoms worse. Stay within your comfort level -- your strength and endurance will increase with time.
Drink Water
Drink water before, during and after your workout. Colitis can leave you dehydrated because you lose so much fluid in your stools, and working out causes you to sweat out whatever is left. You must be very careful to constantly replenish your body's water supply or your performance will suffer, the exercise will feel more difficult, and you'll be at greater risk for heat exhaustion. The rule of thumb is that if you're thirsty, you're already dehydrated.
Avoid High Impact
Many people gravitate toward running because it is free and simple to do. It is also, however, very hard on the gastrointestinal tract because the constant impact jars your insides with every step. Activities with smoother, lower-impact motions aren't as likely to aggravate symptoms. Try swimming, cross-country skiing, ballroom dancing or any activity that keeps your feet on the ground.
Avoiding the "Uh-Oh" Moment
If you are having a flare-up, don't embark on a 20-mile excursion. Use the gym's treadmill or elliptical instead, so you can hop right off and go to the bathroom when the urge strikes. If you are having a "gas day," avoid yoga classes or similar situations where you might feel embarrassed. Try setting up a simple home gym -- a treadmill or stationary bike and a few sets of weights can allow you to meet all of your fitness needs in the comfort of your own home when you're having symptoms.
