Moving after Covid

After coronavirus, people may feel unsure of how and when to return to physical activity due to the impacts on their bodies and whether it is safe for them to do so. Below, we have collated some of the advice and guidance on how people can start to get moving again after coronavirus.

  • People who have had Covid should have clinical assessment before returning to physical activity
  • Only return to exercise after at least seven days free of symptoms, and begin with at least two weeks of minimal exertion
  • Use daily self monitoring to track progress, including when to seek further help

Advice from the British Medical Journal

Moving Medicine

Moving Medicine have many resources to support you to recover from coronavirus and return to activity.

Handy Tips for recovering from Covid-19

This patient information leaflet is for people recovering from Covid-19 and includes safe and effective information to help you take control and start building your body back to normal. This been developed by doctors and medical experts with the help of Covid-19 patients. Download the leaflet here.

Active recovery workbook

Download this active recovery workbook to help you plan and manage your own return to health.

Bed exercise programme

This booklet details a number of exercises that can be done on the bed. There are exercises to work on flexibility and strength as well as guidance on how to progress the exercises. They are designed to help you start to get moving a little more as you start to recover or if it’s been some while since you’ve exercised. Download the booklet here.

Standing exercise programme

This booklet details a number of exercises that can be carried out standing next to a stable surface. There are exercises to work on stamina, flexibility and strength as well as guidance on how to progress the exercises. They are designed to help you start to get moving a little more as you start to recover or if it’s been some while since you’ve exercised. Download the booklet here.

Find more support in your recovery from Moving Medicine here.

NHS recovery guidance

The NHS have created an online resource, Your Covid Recovery, to help you to understand what has happened and what you might expect as part of your recovery. View the NHS support and guidance to getting moving again here.

Advice and support from Chartered Society of Physiotherapists

One thing we know about Covid-19 is that the road to recovery isn’t always straightforward. Don’t feel worried or discouraged if it takes a while to get your energy and fitness back. The following advice is designed to help you on your road to recovery. Read the advice here.

If you're struggling with breathlessness, you can work through some of the simple techniques in this video to help you manage breathlessness.