Though we have always been conscious of our health, we never really take extra effort to understand what is healthy living, what is healthy food and how to adopt a healthy lifestyle until cancer visited mom. Ever since, we have googled so much on these subjects that suddenly a whole new world of new knowledge opens up to us.

We all know that we need to exercise and workout our muscles to improve our health and our overall well-being; and aches and pain forms a part of that routine. It is important that we recognise and understand if a certain pain is a tell tale sign of an impending problem that our body is trying to warn us.  After any strenuous exercise, it is normal to suffer muscle soreness, sometimes up to a week. But if the pain is acute and sudden, it may be a signal of trouble.

We hope to share some of what we learnt with everyone.  Below are some general guidelines for your references and are not an exhaustive list.  It should not be interpreted in any way beyond using it as a reference.

KneeThe knee has no muscles. So, if you suffer tightness on the knee, it is likely to be an injury.  It is best to seek medical advice before the injury deteriorates and may lead to more serious joint injury.



Back Pain
You may suffer back soreness after exercise, but if you feel a sharp pain in the middle of the spine (where there is no muscles), then it is a cause for concern.



Weight Loss
Unexplained weight loss is never good. Sudden unexplained weight loss of more than 10% within 6 months may be a cause of concern. If the weight loss is due to vigorous training and dieting, then it should be fine. Else, it is best to see a doctor as it may be due to thyroid, gut disorder, diabetes, or cancer etc.

Anyone doing vigorous training (e.g. training for a marathon) will usually experience weight loss. If your training time improves as you lose weight, it is considered normal. But, if your timing got worst as you lose weight, you may have over-exerted yourself and pass the point of negative returns.


Dry Cough vs Breathlessness
Breathlessness is normal during vigorous training, but if you start to have dry cough, then it is abnormal.


Chest Pain
No matter how hard you train, you should never experience chest pain. See a doctor!

In one of the newspaper article, Singapore Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew (former Singapore Prime Minister) mentioned that during one of his stationary boat rowing session, he suffered acute chest pain. After the doctor's diagnosis, they found blockages of the blood vessels to his heart, and he had to go for an operation to clear the blockages.


In conclusion, it is important to always "listen" to our body for any tell-tale signs of abnormality. Seeking early treatment may save you a bundle of money, minimize your suffering before the injury gets worst and most of all, it can save your life!