Finding the perfect workout for myasthenia gravis

Like many others, being diagnosed with myasthenia gravis was a turning point in my life.

Before my diagnosis, school sports were a nightmare. Running, basketball, and other physical activities left me exhausted and discouraged while everyone else seemed to thrive. After my diagnosis, I avoided workouts altogether, especially after gaining weight because of my condition.

However, the positivity online around fitness sparked my curiosity. It made me wonder: Could I find a way to stay active that didn’t leave me feeling worse?

My first post-diagnosis attempt at fitness was Zumba and Asian dance. I’d always loved music, so the idea of dancing to lively beats sounded like a fun way to exercise. And for a while, it was. I enjoyed the mental and emotional release as I laughed at my clumsy steps and lost myself in the rhythm. But after three months, my body couldn’t keep up. My muscles felt like they were running on empty, and I often found myself bedridden after class.

Eventually, I quit, but not entirely. I still dance at home sometimes, even if it’s just for a minute or two. Those fun sessions lift my mood and remind me of the joy that movement can bring.

Feeling determined, I joined a running club. The group planned a mountain circuit, and I optimistically decided to give it a try. Two minutes in, I was completely drained. My breathing became labored, and I had to stop. That night I spent hours hooked up to my oxygen concentrator, feeling frustrated and defeated. Running felt impossible, but at least I’d tried.

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Discovering what works

Next I explored gym workouts. Muscle strengthening exercises seemed promising. Following my doctor’s advice, I took long breaks between sets to prevent overexertion. It was manageable physically, but mentally it didn’t resonate with me. I missed the sense of connection and joy I’d felt with dancing and the camaraderie of the running club.

Swimming came next. I’d heard it was the perfect low-impact exercise. The buoyancy of water should have made movement easier, but for me, it didn’t. Breath control, a crucial part of swimming, was a challenge I couldn’t overcome. I often felt like a whale, floating more than swimming. Despite the humor I found in the experience, I knew swimming wasn’t for me.

Then I found yoga.

Unlike the other activities I’d tried, yoga didn’t demand stamina or speed. Its focus on slow, deliberate movements and breathing exercises felt aligned with my body’s needs. During each session, I’d push gently against my limits, and by the end, I’d often fall asleep during meditation. I’d wake up refreshed, surrounded by supportive friends, feeling a deep sense of accomplishment. Unlike other workouts that left me calling for help or relying on taxis, yoga allows me to get home independently, relaxed and content.

Each of my attempts taught me something valuable. Zumba and dance reminded me of the importance of joy in movement. Running, though it pushed my physical limits, taught me about pacing myself and recognizing my boundaries. Gym workouts underscored the need for rest and recovery. Swimming showed me the importance of finding humor in my journey. Yoga taught me to listen to my body and celebrate small victories.

For anyone with myasthenia gravis looking to stay active, my advice is simple: Start small and stay curious. Consult with your doctor before trying anything new. Remember, not every workout will work for you, and that’s OK. Explore activities that bring you joy, whether it’s dancing, walking, or stretching. Most importantly, don’t compare your journey with anyone else’s. Progress is personal, and every step forward counts.

Finding the right workout with myasthenia gravis involves trial and error. It’s about learning to balance movement with rest and discovering what makes you feel good — physically, mentally, and emotionally. Yoga has changed my life, and I encourage others to explore and find what works best for them. Embrace the journey and celebrate every victory, no matter how small.

Note: Myasthenia Gravis 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 Myasthenia Gravis News or its parent company, Bionews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to myasthenia gravis.