Welcome Video

From Andrea

 
 

Start Here

For those of you just joining Autoimmune Strong- Welcome!

This page is to help guide you to getting started- as I know it can be a little confusing in the beginning. So- follow the step by step instructions below, and if you have any questions- as always, reach out to me at info@getautoimmunestrong.com. 

 
 
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Step One

Get set up with THE facebook community

Community support is essential, especially in the beginning. It helps you to stay committed and motivated, and it's great to know that we are not alone!

The private Facebook page is the first step towards gaining community support. Click here to join. I encourage you to reach out, introduce yourself, ask questions of other members, and share your experience!  The more we support each other, the stronger we become.

 

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Step Two

Accountability buddies are also available for support!

Their purpose is to provide extra support and motivation. With an accountability buddy- once you have been assigned to a partnership, it is up to you both to decide how to communicate. You can text, email, send pictures, whatever you want- to keep each other motivated! The only requirement is that accountability buddies stay positive and encouraging to each other. To request an accountability buddy, click here. 

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Step Three

Read the Important Info

Before you start with the Get Moving videos- be sure to read the important information below. It includes info on things like equipment you will need and what to do if you feel any pain. I know it's a lot of information, but I promise it will help. 

Read Now

 

Step Four

Watch the first video

Get set up for watching your first video. Set up a designated workout space in your home. Make sure you have Wifi, so you can watch the video. Also- make sure you can both see and hear the video before you start. 

Watch Now

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After the first exercise, you might feel a little sore. Don't be surprised or scared- a little soreness is normal. It's your body adapting to new movement.

However, if at any time you aren't sure if what you are doing is right- reach out! Use the Facebook group to share your story, or email me at info@getautoimmunestrong.com

 
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Step Five

Add our community calls to your calendar

Let's get to know each other, talk about your specific needs, and answer any questions you might have. 

Community calls are on the second Thursday of every month at 1:00pm EST/EDT

Join the call with Zoom: 
https://zoom.us/j/4018249042

 
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Step Six

Keep going!!!

Move on to the next video, keep practicing, and follow the calendar for support.  

Start the "Get Moving" phase now!

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Important Info

Why is Autoimmune Strong different from other traditional workouts?


• Takes into account an inflamed body, and how that body needs to be managed differently than typical bodies
• Prepares the body for movement before adding stressful exercises to the body
• Protects the body from injury by its slow progressive pace and its focus on stability before strength
• Focuses on neuromuscular and pain adaptations- gaining better pain tolerance

Why is it important to go slow through the program?

As a person with chronic pain, your body is dealing with high levels of inflammation and cortisol. Exercise, while extremely beneficial, can overstimulate your body- exposing you to even greater levels of inflammation and cortisol. This is why I encourage you to go slow through the program. Listen to your body, do what you can, push a little harder when you feel you are ready, and back off when you feel you need to. The calendar is there as a guide, but you do not have to do the exercises as frequently as the calendar recommends.
This is a self-paced program, so follow it as you feel is best for your body. That said, consistency is how you build that capacity for greater pain tolerance we discussed earlier. Stay consistent, try to do something every day, no matter how small it may be. Each little movement teaches your body how to adapt that much more.

I am feeling pain- should I stop?

There are three types of “pain” you could be feeling here. The first is soreness. Exercise can induce some soreness- that is normal. Soreness feels like a dull muscle ache, and happens when the body is adapting. This type of pain is okay. We don’t want too much of it- as it can stimulate a flare-up. So- if you feel too much soreness, take a day or two off. But a little soreness is ok- and sometimes movement is what is best to take that soreness away.

Now, the second is pain. If you feel dull or sharp pain anywhere- stop immediately. Rest, and if it doesn’t go away, please call a doctor.

Third is flare-up. A flare-up can feel different to different people- but most people with chronic pain know what one feels like. Read this blog post about what to do in case of a flare- and feel free to contact me and I can help you through it.

I am having trouble motivating to do my Autoimmune Strong workouts. What should I do?

Autoimmune Strong was designed to provide multiple support systems to help you stay motivated. Chat with people on the facebook page, reach out for an accountability buddy, or check in with Andrea. All of these support systems are here to help you.

Why should I read the food guide?

Exercise is a critical part of keeping us healthy. However, food is our source of nutrition, and we need proper nutrition to keep our inflammation and pain levels low. The food guide will teach you how to eat to minimize inflammation and cortisol, which will help you get stronger and more capable of performing your daily activities pain free.

What equipment do I need for Autoimmune Strong?

You can do Autoimmune Strong without any equipment at all. However, there are a few tools that will make things easier and more effective for you. A yoga mat is helpful, to create a designated space for your workouts. Foam rollers are very helpful too. Check out the extras page for links to my favorite tools Click Here to view the recommended equipment list.

How do I make sure to stay safe while exercising and not aggravate my symptoms?

It is really important to listen to your body. Each person if different, and because of that, I cannot promise that this program will work for everyone. It is up to you to be extra attentive to your body, go slow, take rest days, and follow the food guide. I am here for you as support, so if you want extra guidance, please reach out to me at info@getautoimmunestrong.com.