Does anyone else feel worse after strenuous exercise?

[IBS-sufferer-123]

I've been getting back into running - only once a week, running 5-10km each time, but over lockdown I've really noticed a positive impact on my mental health during/after my runs, so would like to increase a bit.

I stick to my usual morning routine, which means I can't just get up and go for a run like I used to when my IBS wasn't so bad, but running does feel like something I can do again, which is great (although I still get a bit nervous before going).

However, I do have a slightly annoying problem, in that if I try and push myself and run a bit faster, I'm OK on the run but after getting home, I have low-level stomach cramps and wind for the rest of the day, and often need the toilet again. It's definitely related to the extra effort - it only happens on the days I run, and seems to only happen when I push it.

Anyone got any insight? I'm glad to be running again, but the old competitive part of me would definitely like to push myself a bit harder!

[Barney100]

Hi I like to run long distance and have done many marathons. Occassionally, this has been with stomach pains but, like you, generally running does not make the problem worse and in fact has many other benefits, both mentally and physically. After running I often feel drained and normally ensure I take vitamin C drink afterwards. This is really important as sometimes we are not keeping the fluid in our body that we need to (IBS sufferers much more than most.) In terms of further cramps and winds, I agree this sometimes happens after running. Cool down exercise and deep breathing helps a bit but there is no real cure for this. Ultimately, I believe the positives greatly outweigh the negatives and I would encourage you to continue. I will not ever let my IBS get in the way of running. It will not win, I will!

[IBS-sufferer-123 in reply to Barney100]

Thanks Barney, good to hear from another IBS runner! That's a good point, about not keeping the fluid in our bodies - I didn't have a drink immediately after getting home yesterday, and was worse than usual. I'll try that after my next run and see if it helps!

[Hidden in reply to Barney100]

Good for you!

Point is even though accidents aren't exactly nice in no way are they the end of the world!

[Hidden]

Last Sunday I had an accident after I had gone out for a walk after a heavy Sunday lunch as in the morning the streets had been like ice rinks so I had decided to have gone out after Sunday dinner and I was on my way back and bam the urge struck and it let loose!

Last night myself and my friends were laughing about it together and said how accidents aren't the end of the world and there's worse things that can happen than them!

Next time I will wait a couple of hours after a big dinner and exercise then or save it for another day if the weathers severe or take it indoors with a fitness video.

[Krn210]

I have this happen occasionally too. There are times I can do my usual workout and be just fine. Other times by the time I am done I have horrid stomach cramps. I try to pay attention now prior to starting my workout. If my stomach feels any way that I think is wonky or could be I take it easy with the exercise that day. Lol. I still do it, just not as intense.