Blood Donation and Working Out

[Amy Steppe]

I have a question that perhaps some of you can help me with. I donated blood yesterday, took the day off and resumed my workouts this evening. I did (tried to do) Mega Step Blast, but had to lower my step from 8" to 6" to get through it and had to rest between sections. I drank water liberally throughout the workout, so I am not dehydrated.

Prior to blood donations, I was at the peak of my endurance and strength.

I have noticed that this happens every time I donate. Of course, I donate blood as community service and would not dream of stopping.

Has anyone else out there ever experienced a decline for a week or so post blood donation?

Thanks to all of you -- you guys are great!

 

[lwseymour]

Yes, me too!

Hi Amy,
Yes, I noticed a decline in my energy level while working out for 2 or 3 days after donating. I think it's probably normal, although I'm not a nurse, so I'm not sure. Maybe a professional will reply to your post and give us an exact answer. Lisa

 

[Amy Steppe]

Thanks, Lisa!

I am glad I'm not alone in this. I was so disheartened last evening when I couldn't make it through Mega Step Blast which is one Cathe's workouts I save for my "light" days.

Heaven forbid I had attempted MIC or Body Max!

LOL!

 

[lounsbury]

Me too...

I've noticed I'm not up to par for a few days after donating blood, too. Whenever I do, they always tell me not to do any strenuous activity that day, and if I workout over the next couple of days, to keep it on the light side. Most importantly, though, drink more water than usual for a couple of days after donating blood -- you need it to help bring your blood volume back up. I'm not a nurse or doctor, but this is what the blood bank nurses tell me whenever I donate blood. Hope this helps!

Lynne

 

[KA]

Usually just that day...

So I always try to work out before donation. It was interesting that you posted this because I am donating tomorrow. Last time I donated blood I got a little carried away and filled out the placemat in the "donor diner" requesting plasma donors. Now I am looking at a three hour donation tomorrow! Oh well, I know it is for a good cause, but I better bring plenty of reading material!
Sorry, I guess I did not really answer your question.

 

[Colia]

Hi Amy!

Yes, it is quite normal to feel less energetic after donating blood. What has happened is that you've lost a pint of blood acutely - and in that pint are red blood cells that serve to carry oxygen to the tissues. The fingerstick they do prior is to make sure that you have enough rbc's (i.e. you aren't anemic) so that donating isn't dangerous. So while you may feel fine doing normal activities, you may feel sapped of energy doing strenuous exercise because your body has not yet adjusted to its lowered capacity to deliver oxygen. Fortunately, the red blood cells are replaced pretty quickly as is total blood volume, and you should be feeling back to normal within a week. Hope this helps.


Cheers!
Colia

 

[Amy Steppe]

Thanks To All of You!

I worked out tonight and was just about back in my form. Thank ALL OF YOU who have provided support and input.

You are the greatest

p.s. I still highly recommend blood donation as a form of community service. It saves so many lives and I never regret doing it!