Yeah, the title of this post sounds like you’ll be heading to the gym with your best bud. So NOT the case. As explained in this post about Hidradenitis Suppurativa, sometimes even moving your body is a chore due to the pain.

Actually, working out is doing all of the opposite things that make HS better. Loads of friction, tight fitting clothing, and sweat are all enemies of this autoimmune delight. My fear with working out heavily, is the flare ups that follow a good cardio session.

Taking my vitamin cocktail daily helps with the flare ups, but again, there are times when all the turmeric capsules in the world can’t stop that one cyst from creeping up. Actually I currently have about five brewing. They aren’t huge or extra hurty, but they are there because aunt flo is a fickle bitch and makes my hormones go bat shit crazy. I just slap a bandaid on them and carry on as usual. Seriously considering buying stock in the bandaid company!

I’ve created a list of low impact style exercises that don’t bother my cyst buddies too much.

Low impact exercises:

• Yoga – excellent for building strength and mobility.
• Walking – a great slow pace exercise that you get to set, start small and go big! We make it two times around our loop now instead of just the one!
• If you’re feeling frisky and dangerous… A brisk walk – picture mall walking grannies, but far cooler cause you’re a badass.
• Swimming – I wear shorts in the water, you wear whatever you want. This is excellent because it allows you to move freely, get some good cardio and not tons of friction.
• Gentle strength and conditioning – I’m far from doing a HIIT routine but some push ups, squats and weights are a good way to get some toning in.

After a good workout it’s a good idea to shower and scrub yourself down. Not only for the stink factor. But having a warm shower opens up your pores, you don’t want all that sweat trapped in there. Also picking a spot where you feel most comfortable doing your exercise is important. When I do exercise, I prefer the curtains to be closed and no one around. I’m self conscious about my jiggles, especially in yoga pants.

These are just a few ideas to help get you moving. I understand that it can be hard, especially during a bad time. Do what you can, and when you can. Just remember if it doesn’t feel right then don’t do it, and drink lots of water!