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It is not always easy to be physically active if you’re living with Crohn’s or Colitis. But being active is important for our physical and mental health. It is safe to be physically active or to exercise with Crohn’s or Colitis. Current research suggests it does not cause flare-ups.
You might find it difficult to be active if your Crohn’s or Colitis is severe. Symptoms like tummy or joint pain, fatigue, or urgently needing to poo can get in the way. For some people, being active can trigger these symptoms. But most people with Crohn’s or Colitis say exercising makes them feel better. Some said they have more energy, better sleep and fewer gut symptoms.
Being active can improve mental wellbeing and quality of life, as well as reducing fatigue. Being active may also have positive effects on your condition, such as reducing the risk of a flare-up. Scientists believe regular exercise could help reduce inflammation in Crohn’s or Colitis. This has been seen in other long-term illnesses, but more research is needed to know for sure.
Most research on exercise has involved people in remission or with mildly active Crohn’s or Colitis, who were doing low or moderate intensity activities. Moderate intensity exercise is when your heart rate increases and you can talk, but not sing. Examples include brisk walking or cycling.
Higher intensity exercise is when you breathe harder and cannot say more than a few words without pausing for breath. Examples include running, aerobics or playing football. We do not know much about higher intensity exercise in people with Crohn’s or Colitis. But early research shows it can be safe and enjoyable
UK guidelines recommend that adults try to do:
- At least 150 minutes (two and a half hours) of moderate intensity activity every week, including:
- Muscle strengthening exercises on two or more days a week that work all the major muscle groups (legs, hips, back, abdomen, chest, shoulders and arms)
This includes older adults and those who are pregnant or disabled.
There are no specific recommendations for exercising with Crohn’s or Colitis. It will probably depend on how active your condition is and your symptoms at the time.
If you’re not very active or your symptoms are making it difficult, try to build up your activity levels slowly. Walk to the shops instead of taking the car, use the stairs instead of the lift. Even sitting down less during the day can help. But be kind to yourself. If you’re not feeling up to it, don’t put pressure on yourself.
If you’re struggling to increase your physical activity, talk to your IBD team or GP. They may be able to suggest ideas to help you, based on your personal situation.
