Can I exercise after a blood test?
Getting a blood test a few times a year is the best practice for anyone active consistently (i.e., athletes and exercise enthusiasts). But can you exercise after your blood draw? Does it matter what type of workout you do? You’re in luck, we have just the answers you’re looking for.
When can I exercise after a blood test?
It’s best to wait at least an hour before you do any kind of exercise (source). We take as little blood as possible to run the tests (1 vial is 5 mL), so this shouldn’t affect you too much. But, it still takes energy for your body to regenerate the blood taken, so waiting an hour will help with this.
What exercise is okay?
Doing light or moderate exercise should be fine. Have a run? Go for it. Are you scheduled to cycle? Great. A blood draw won’t negatively affect light to moderate exercise.
What exercise should I avoid?
Avoid doing high-intensity exercise or lifting heavy objects after your blood draw. It’s probably best not to get your blood drawn before a time trial, FTP test, or pull-up contest. You’ll be fine the next day, so no need to rearrange your whole training plan.
What should I do after the blood draw?
Eat. Drink. Chill (ideally). It takes energy and nutrients to make new blood. So drink some water/fluids and have a meal or a snack with at least some protein and carbohydrates. If you can take it easy for the next hour, that’s ideal. After that, you should be good to go.
Blood testing is an integral part of achieving your best, whether that’s performance or how you feel. You don’t have to skip your workout if you get your blood drawn. Have some food and a drink (not that kind of drink) and wait at least an hour before doing your workout. It’s best if your workout isn’t heavy lifting or something super intense, save that for the next day.
You may also like this article on the best diet for athletes or the article below.
