“I know exercise is meant to be good for me, but is it actually safe?”
If you have an injury, a long-term condition, or you’re worried about doing the wrong thing, this is one of the most common questions people ask before starting to exercise. It’s a fair concern, and one that deserves a clear and honest answer.
For almost everyone, the short answer is yes, it is safe to exercise. In fact, regular movement is one of the most effective ways to improve health, manage symptoms, and feel better day to day. That said, how you exercise matters just as much as whether you exercise.
If you are unsure, or if you have a medical condition or injury, it is always sensible to check with your GP first. This gives you reassurance and ensures there are no specific limitations you need to be aware of before getting started.
From our own experience, we work with many people who live with long-term illnesses and injuries, and they exercise safely with us every week. You do not need to be pain-free or fully recovered before you begin. Exercise is often part of the recovery and management process.
The real question is not “should I exercise?”, but “how can I exercise at my level?” Everyone’s starting point is different. The right exercises can be adapted to suit your abilities, your condition, and how your body feels on any given day.
Once your GP is happy for you to exercise, it is important to tell your class instructor about your injury or illness. A good instructor will be honest with you about whether a class is suitable and will offer alternatives or modifications where needed.
It’s also worth knowing that there are many exercise classes designed specifically for people with injuries, long-term conditions, or low confidence. These classes focus on safe, supported movement and can be an excellent way to build confidence and consistency.
In our experience, we have yet to find an illness or injury that cannot be improved in some way by the right exercises, done at the right level. Improvement might look like better movement, less pain, more strength, or simply feeling more confident in your body.
As an example, we run targeted classes for different needs, including a programme designed to introduce people to the gym, the equipment, and how to exercise safely and confidently in that environment. You can learn more about our Get Moving In The Gym service by clicking below:
If you’ve been unsure whether exercise is safe for you, the next step is finding the right support and the right environment. Take a look at our supported and rehab-focused exercise services on the website and see how we can help you move more, safely and confidently, at your own level.