Can you exercise after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine?
Dec 02, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Li Feng
Introduction
In general, whether one can exercise after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine should be determined based on the individual's specific physical reactions. If severe discomfort occurs, medical attention should be sought promptly. Basic post-vaccination care is necessary: keep the injection site clean and dry, and avoid contact with water for 24 hours to prevent infection. Maintain a light diet, drink plenty of warm water, and ensure adequate intake of vitamins and protein.
Generally, whether one can exercise after receiving a COVID-19 vaccine depends on the individual's specific physical reactions. If severe discomfort occurs, medical attention should be sought promptly. The details are as follows:
If there is no significant discomfort after vaccination, or only mild soreness or swelling at the injection site, moderate exercise is acceptable. Opt for low-intensity activities such as walking or gentle stretching, avoid overexertion, and limit each session to within 30 minutes. This allows the body to remain comfortable while activating the immune response, thereby supporting the effectiveness of the vaccine.
If symptoms such as fever, fatigue, headache, or muscle pain occur, or if there is obvious redness, swelling, and pain at the injection site, exercise should be suspended. At this time, the body needs to focus its energy on managing the immune response; strenuous activity may worsen discomfort and potentially delay recovery. Exercise should only be gradually resumed after all symptoms have completely subsided.
Basic post-vaccination care is essential. Keep the injection site clean and dry, and avoid contact with water for 24 hours to prevent infection. Maintain a light diet, drink plenty of warm water, and ensure adequate intake of vitamins and protein. Get sufficient sleep and avoid staying up late or overexerting yourself. Seek medical advice promptly if persistent high fever or severe discomfort develops.
