Moderate exercise done regularly can help you stay physically and emotionally healthy. Besides making your muscles, skeleton, and circulation stronger, a reasonable amount of exercise is thought to make your immune system work better. It can also help you relax, improve your digestion and your ability to get rid of body wastes, and make it easier for your body to take in and use oxygen. Exercise is extremely useful in relieving stress and reducing anxiety and depression.There are many types of exercise and, as with everything else, you need to decide what works for you. You may want to talk to your doctor before beginning any new exercise program. Include plenty of time for slow stretching. If you get tired, take a break. And if you have any problems that will not go away, talk to your doctor. You may want to try taking an aerobics class or doing other aerobic exercise, such as going for brisk walks, swimming, cycling, or dancing. Aerobic exercise moves lots of oxygen through your body and strengthens your heart. It’s usually suggested that people with HIV should focus on weight training, since this builds lean body mass. (Aerobic exercise may burn too many calories without promoting muscle mass.) Doing exercise that gets your heart and lungs going for at least 20 minutes causes your body to produce endorphins - chemicals that relieve pain and make you feel good. Physical exercise can give you a chance to socialize and have fun. It’s important to create an exercise program that you can enjoy. Do not overdo it, though. Too much exercise is bad for your immune system.
