Podcast Episode 16: COVID Special for Patients
Podcast Episode 16: COVID Special for Patients and Health and Wellbeing Professionals with Emily Lockwood, Respiratory Physio
In the first part of our 2 part COVID special with Emily Lockwood, respiratory physio, we delve into the symptoms of COVID, what long COVID really means and how to return to activity after long COVID.
We also discuss the importance of listening to your body, what an activity diary is and why seeking help from a respiratory physio can help you.
This podcast is also really useful for clinicians or health professionals to listen to as it has some great tips.
What Our Experts Say
One of the most important messages from this episode is that recovery should not be rushed. After an illness such as COVID, your current capacity may be very different from what it was before. Movement should begin at a manageable level and be adapted according to your energy, breathing and response afterwards. Clinical Pilates may provide a supportive way to gradually rebuild confidence and strength, but the programme must remain individual and flexible rather than encouraging someone to push through worsening symptoms.
Natalia Barbosa - Clinical Pilates Practitioner and Registered Nurse
Key Takeaways
- COVID recovery can continue beyond the initial illness – Some people experience ongoing symptoms after the acute infection has passed, which may affect their energy, breathing and ability to return to normal activities.
- Your return to activity should be guided by your symptoms – Recovery is individual, so activity levels should reflect how your body is responding rather than how much you could do before becoming unwell.
- Listening to your body is an important part of recovery – Symptoms can provide useful information about whether an activity is manageable or whether you need to reduce the intensity and allow more time to recover.
- An activity diary can help identify patterns – Recording your activities and symptoms may make it easier to recognise which tasks are manageable and which ones leave you feeling worse.
- Respiratory physiotherapy can provide additional support – A respiratory physiotherapist can help you understand symptoms such as breathlessness and guide an appropriate return to movement and everyday activity.
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FAQs
1. What are the most common symptoms of long COVID?
Common symptoms include extreme tiredness, shortness of breath, aching muscles or joints, and difficulties with memory or concentration, often referred to as brain fog. Some people also experience sleep problems, dizziness, headaches, chest discomfort, anxiety or changes to their sense of smell and taste.
2. How long does long COVID last?
Long COVID is generally used to describe COVID-19 symptoms that continue for longer than 12 weeks. Recovery varies considerably: some symptoms may improve relatively quickly, while others can continue for much longer.
3. Can long COVID symptoms come and go?
Yes. Symptoms may improve, return or change over time, and new symptoms can sometimes develop. Some people also notice that their symptoms become worse following increased activity or periods of stress.
4. Is there a test for long COVID?
There is no single test that confirms long COVID. A GP will ask about your symptoms and how long they have been present, and may arrange tests such as blood tests, oxygen-level monitoring, an ECG or an X-ray to assess your health and rule out other possible causes.
5. When should I speak to my GP about long COVID?
Speak to your GP if you think you may have long COVID or if ongoing symptoms are affecting your daily life. They can assess your symptoms, arrange appropriate tests and refer you to a post-COVID service or other specialists where necessary.
Feeling Inspired?
If you want to experience the Complete difference and discover the benefits of one-to-one or small group Pilates, book a session at one of our London or Norfolk studios today. Not able to make it to one of our studios? We've got online options to suit you anywhere, anytime.
Our physiotherapist-led Pilates studio in Chelsea, our Angel Pilates studio, our Pilates studio in City, and our Norfolk Pilates studio in East Anglia, offer a highly tailored approach to your Pilates training. Whether your goal is to manage a health condition, rehabilitate from an injury or to improve your strength and fitness, Complete Pilates is the studio for you.
Education is Key
These blogs are designed to give information to everyone, however, it is important to remember that everyone is different! If you have not seen one of our therapists and have any questions about injuries, what you have read or whether this may be useful to you, please just ask. We are more than happy to help anyone and point you in the right direction. Our biggest belief is that education is key. The more you understand about your injury, illness and movement, the more you are likely to improve.
If you are not sure whether this is for you, simply get in touch. We are here to help!
Published 3 Feb 2021 · Updated 3 Aug 2026