Exercise can often induce migraines. High school and middle school kids are forced to drop out of their school sports because of migraines. Adults often quit exercising altogether because of the pain they experience.
Dropping out of sports and quitting exercise is not always the answer. You can continue to be active despite your migraines and headaches. Here are some things you should consider when you exercise:
- Weather
If the weather is particularly hot and humid it is more likely to trigger a migraine. Work your exercise schedule around the heat, either running in the early mornings or evenings or exercising in a gym. If you must be outside, always stay hydrated and try to be in the shade as much as possible.
- Altitude
If you are traveling, allow your body a few days to adjust to the new altitude before jumping into your exercise regime. Start out with some lighter workouts before pushing yourself harder. Remember to stay hydrated as well.
- Warm up and cool down
Give your muscles and joints time to warm up and relax before and after working out. You are much more likely to trigger a migraine if you immediately begin or stop moving.
Exercise is proven to reduce the intensity and frequency of migraines, so don’t give up on working out! Take these initial steps to ensure you are taking care of your body during exercise, and you will find that exercising with migraines is not impossible.
