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Real members of myHIVteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Exercise and HIV Medication Side Effects

A myHIVteam Member asked a question 💭
Barrie, ON

I'm very curious to know if getting exercise can reduce side effects of ART Medication?

February 26
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Answer Summary

Members enthusiastically agreed that regular exercise can help manage many side effects of HIV medication, including fatigue, weight changes,... Read more

Members enthusiastically agreed that regular exercise can help manage many side effects of HIV medication, including fatigue, weight changes, mood swings, and metabolic issues like high cholesterol or blood sugar. Several members shared personal success stories, with one noting 30 years on ART and improved health markers when maintaining a consistent gym routine, and another describing how weight training, cycling, and jogging have helped them stay strong and reduce treatment toxicity. A recurring theme was that while exercise doesn't eliminate medication side effects, it acts as a powerful partner to ART by supporting energy levels, bone density, mental health, and overall physical resilience.

A myHIVteam Member

@A myHIVteam Member I can speak for myself and my HIV gym buddies. Yes is the answer. There is no known connection between the two, but heavy, consistent exercise improves function and reduces toxicity in general as well as eliminating and regulating HART harm and effects. . I have been positive 30 years and my dr. and noticed all my numbers, symptoms, weight are worse in times of no exercise. Proof right there. Currently each week I do gym 3-4x for at least an hour on weights or machines , 20-40 mi cycling on a real bike and a 5k weekly with a gay jogging team. An added benefit...looking sexy!

February 26 (edited)
A myHIVteam Member

😂🤣😅🤣😂

February 26
A myHIVteam Member

Since I’ve been on HIV drugs for almost 30 years which caused me to have kidney disease but my viral load is undetectable for the last 15 years. I now excercises 6 days a week and I feel strong and equipped as well as I can to continue fight the virus!❤️

February 26
A myHIVteam Member

Oh gurl get your ass on that treadmill.

February 26
myHIVteam

Can exercise help reduce ART medication side effects?

Exercise can be incredibly beneficial when living with HIV and taking ART. While it may not directly eliminate medication side effects like nausea or headaches, physical activity offers several important benefits that can improve your overall well-being.

Regular Show Full Answer

Can exercise help reduce ART medication side effects?

Exercise can be incredibly beneficial when living with HIV and taking ART. While it may not directly eliminate medication side effects like nausea or headaches, physical activity offers several important benefits that can improve your overall well-being.

Regular exercise can help with:
- Managing weight gain (a common ART side effect)
- Reducing stress and improving mood
- Fighting fatigue
- Improving sleep quality
- Lowering risk of heart disease and high blood pressure
- Reducing risk of long-term complications like osteoporosis and diabetes

A myHIVteam member shared: "I realized that exercise keeps my mind and body busy, I have released a lot of stress and it keeps my mind from negative things."

You don't need fancy equipment or a gym membership. Walking, swimming, cycling, dancing, or even gardening can help you stay active. The key is choosing activities you enjoy and can do regularly.

Before starting any new exercise routine, talk with your doctor to make sure it's appropriate for your situation. They can help you create a plan that works for you.

February 26

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