During the early stages of recovery many people become very edgy and are not always sure what do with their free time.  Recovering from addiction is a life changing process.  Many individuals who have achieved long lasting sobriety have found exercise to be extremely beneficial.  Studies have shown that those individuals who include a workout routine in their recovery from drugs and alcohol are less likely to experience relapse.

During early recovery exercise will help to fill the void that occurs once the use of drugs and alcohol is discontinued.  Many quality rehab facilities include exercise in their daily recovery program.  Recovering from drugs and alcohol is a big change and with change comes stress.  Stress can be a major “trigger” that can ultimately lead to a relapse.  Exercise can provide the recovering addict with the same sense of gratification and well being that they were trying to reach through the use of drugs and alcohol.

Years of alcohol and drug abuse can take a major tole on ones body.  When treatment begins it may only be possible for an individual to take short walks.  Over time the body will become more capable of more strenuous activities.  Exercise can help rebuild the body from the damage that was caused as a result of alcohol and drug abuse.

Exercising can also help to form bonds with others that suffer from the disease of addiction.  It is common for addicts to get together and engage in physical activities together whether it be weekend volleyball games at the beach, a group bicycle ride or a day skiing on the mountain.  What form the exercise comes in doesn’t matter, the important thing is to get out there and work up a little sweat.