A skin condition like psoriasis can give you plenty of reasons not to exercise. Its symptoms such as visible plaques, scales, and flaking can be not only uncomfortable but also make you feel extra conscious. Those feelings can make it difficult for you to workout. 

However, there are also a lot of reasons to make exercise a priority and losing weight is one of them. Losing weight may help cut back your flares and make your treatment work better. 

According to experts, exercise makes you less likely to have health issues linked with psoriasis, including diabetes, Crohn’s disease, and liver, kidney, and heart problems. It can also boost your motivation, and make you feel happier or in a good mood. 

Going to the Gym

When you have a flare-up, going to the gym may seem to be a bad idea, and can be a tough place especially if you cannot or do not want to cover your plaques with clothing. Be upfront with the staff and let them know that you have psoriasis and that it is not contagious. However, if the gym is not your style, there are other ways to exercise on your own. Take a walk, jog, or ride a bike in your neighborhood. Do push-ups and jump ropes or dance in the comfort of your living room. There are a lot of videos or apps on smartphones, computers, and TVs that can guide you through many ways to work up a sweat. 

Other Ways to Move

There are different forms of exercise. However, it may take a while to find the balance between conditioning and your condition. Cardiovascular exercises such as treadmills, bikes, stair steppers, and ellipticals may be ideal for people with psoriasis, as these are great for weight loss and not traumatic to the body. Trauma, like bruises, burns, scrapes, or any sort of injury, can trigger psoriasis to flare up in that area. It is called Koebnerization, or the Koebner phenomenon.

Keep in mind that psoriasis may mean some types of physical activity just wouldn’t work for you. When it comes to workout clothes, try lightweight fabrics that let your skin breathe like cotton. 

Redefine “Exercise”

You can work more physical activity in your life with little effort. It can be as simple as a 10 to 30-minute walk or stretching in place. The important thing is to work up to a healthy pace. If you’re out of shape, do not go into the gym thinking that an hour of cardio will work the first time. Start slow and easy and bump it up gradually.