Being in the water feels like home to this Cushing’s patient

Working out with Cushing’s disease can be incredibly tough.

I have weak bones and nonexistent muscles, and starting any new workout routine is intimidating. I’ve tried lifting, Pilates, yoga, running (the worst for my body), and even spin classes. When I was living in New York City, many places were too expensive or difficult to get to, so I had to do most of my workouts at home.

Committing to that wasn’t easy. I lived in a small apartment, and most of my exercise consisted of YouTube videos and a yoga mat. It was great at the time. After I moved to Michigan, I discovered a nearby wellness center that’s affordable and has a lot of classes, an area to stretch, and weightlifting and cardio machines. Even better, it has a pool.

Before I got sick, I swam all the time. I was on a swim team for seven years and kept it up as a hobby after I left the team. I loved swimming. I desperately missed it after I became sick with Cushing’s disease and could no longer travel to an affordable pool.

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Getting back in the groove

Finally having access to a pool again has been rejuvenating. My body has missed it. Being in the water feels like home, and it’s quickly become a huge part of my life again. I’m able to go to the pool two to three times a week, and I’m starting to get back into the groove. I haven’t worked out this consistently in ages, which makes it very exciting!

My doctors approve of me swimming. It’s great for my muscles and joints, and there isn’t much risk of me straining something. My OB-GYN is thrilled that I can swim because I can’t fall and hurt the baby, and my other doctors are happy that I can safely and consistently commit to something.

Regular workouts have been fabulous for my mental health, as well. Whenever I feel anxious, I go for a swim. It’s kept me from spiraling. There’s also a sauna, which, once I’m no longer pregnant, I plan to take advantage of. I’m hoping it will help bring down my inflammation.

If you’re able, you should definitely seek out an opportunity to go swimming, or explore any exercise program you enjoy and can do safely. I’m grateful for this change in my routine, and I hope Michigan will continue to surprise me with more ways to dedicate time to my health.

Please follow my journey on TikTok and YouTube.

Note: Cushing’s Disease News is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Cushing’s Disease News or its parent company, Bionews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to Cushing’s.