Can I exercise after receiving a vaccine?

Mar 31, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I am a 25-year-old male who has just completed the COVID-19 vaccination. I regularly engage in physical exercise and would like to know whether I can immediately resume physical activity after vaccination. Is it safe to exercise after receiving the vaccine?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Yang Ziqi

It is acceptable to engage in moderate exercise after receiving a vaccine, but whether to immediately participate in strenuous activity should depend on your physical condition and the intensity of the exercise. After vaccination, some people may experience mild adverse reactions such as fatigue, muscle soreness, or low-grade fever. These symptoms usually resolve on their own within a short period of time. If you feel physically well, you may choose to engage in light exercise, such as walking or stretching, which will not negatively affect your health. However, engaging in high-intensity exercise may place additional stress on your body, intensify feelings of discomfort, and potentially affect your immune response to the vaccine.

To ensure your well-being, it is recommended to avoid strenuous exercise for at least 1 to 2 days after vaccination, especially avoiding overuse of the muscle group where the vaccine was administered. Monitor yourself for any adverse reactions, and if there are no obvious discomforts, you can gradually return to your regular exercise routine. If you feel unusually tired or develop symptoms such as fever, you should extend your rest period and drink more water to promote metabolism. Maintaining a regular sleep schedule and balanced diet after vaccination can help enhance immunity and speed up recovery.