Adding exercise
 

In the coming months, I would like to start adding some exercise to my routine (on the theory that some aerobic exercise, strength training and flexibility will probably be good for my overall health, including brain health). Since my injury, I've limited myself to light household chores, some stairs, and fairly slow walks outdoors (20 mins or so).

Some possibilities include yoga, swimming, and stationary cycling (I love running, skiing, squash, and other activities, but those will have to wait). I'm actually thinking about buying a stationary cycle, as it would be something I could do readily from home. Yoga has some appeal as well, but I'm reluctant to do a lot of bending-over or upside-down poses, at least to start. As for swimming, I love being in the water, but I will need to get better before I start making treks to the gym.

Does anyone have any suggestions re (1) which exercise might be a good initial choice, and (2) how to build up tolerance gradually without triggering symptoms?

I'm thinking that having at least one rest day between exercise sessions probably makes sense to start (to see how I respond). And starting with very short time periods and exertion levels.

i have resistance bands at my house that i use to do some upper body reps of different exercises. I also have a large ball to do some abs exercises and a 8lb kettlebell to do some other upperbody exercises as well. Cant go wrong with squats and lunges in the living room along with calf raises using only your own body weight to start.

Im actually curious about yoga as well. I havent really taken a class before but have done some of the poses before. I am worried about the dizziness being an issue with the poses and the heat. I have a free month at a corepower yoga studio but worried to use it now with some lingering issues. Has anyone who has dizziness had success with yoga and able to work through it?

I took a few yoga classes. The first 2 wiped me out. I had to go sit in the car for 15 mins before I drove home. I guess its getting the stamina back up. I'm not a huge fan of yoga, but it was relaxing. Part of the problem I found was looking up and down at the instructor since I never took yoga before and didn't know what I was doing.

Try it...take a spot near the door...you can always quietly leave. (talk to the manager at the gym...give them your story about concussion, etc. and that you want to "try" it out ...they were so wonderful with me giving me a free pass etc.

yoga
 

Hello,

I posted in another thread about this yoga podcast available through iTunes. Just search "Yogamazing" and you will be able to download the episodes that you specifically want.

I am limited as far as movement so i modify the poses, but I found that the 15 min "Yoga for posture" is really helpful. There are many others, and they are free and the instruction by Chaz Rough is clear and easy for any level. There are a limited number of podcasts for free on iTunes and then they go on sale on his website.

Also, I highly reccommend this book "Yoga for Pain Relief" by Kelly McGonigal, Ph.D. It really encouraged me with my severe headaches and helped me with relaxation practices. It's perfect for beginners because to be honest I know that I still wouldn't be able to handle a class. It is just better to do it at home a few poses at a time. If you can't borrow it at your library,
its available on amazon at

http://www.amazon.com/Yoga-Pain-Reli.../dp/1572246898


I am still limited as far as endurance and exertion triggering symptoms but have found that walking really is the best. And hopefully soon you will be able to go to a pool. Yoga and aquatic exercises are the only things that I can do without a major headache coming on. Just go easy on the yoga- it is easy to get injured if you try to hard.

When I was first starting to exercise, I joined a "senior yoga" at the local community center. The class uses a chair for support, the poses are gentle, and your head is never lower than your heart.

As long as you don't mind being the youngest person in the room by several decades, it's a good option :)