Can I work out with scleral lenses? Absolutely! As someone who’s lived with keratoconus for more than 30 years, I’ve discovered that scleral lenses not only restore vision but also open up a world of fitness possibilities.
Whether you’re planning to lift weights, go for a run, or enjoy a yoga session, scleral lenses can be your reliable workout companion.
Can I Work Out with Scleral Lenses? My Fitness Journey with Keratoconus
I’ve battled severe keratoconus for over three decades and belong to what I call the “12-20% club” – those of us who needed a corneal transplant. Mine happened on my right eye, changing how I approached physical activity forever.
Before finding scleral lenses, working out was a constant struggle. As a certified personal trainer who ran my own facility for 10 years, I faced unique challenges. Without my lenses, I’m legally blind, and glasses offer minimal help.
Regular rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses were a nightmare – my eyes watered constantly, and the lenses frequently popped out from my right eye due to my severely distorted cornea.
Everything changed in August 2017 when I received my first pair of scleral lenses. I call this my “new birthday” because it truly gave me a new life. With scleral lenses, my vision improved to nearly 20/20, opening up possibilities I hadn’t experienced in decades.
The comfort and clarity these lenses provide is nothing short of a miracle. Whether I’m lifting weights or cycling, my lenses stay perfectly in place.
Even when I took an unexpected tumble from my bike (not vision-related, just a moment of poor judgment!), my lenses remained secure. This reliability has transformed how I approach fitness.
Benefits of Scleral Lenses During Workouts
Unmatched Stability
Scleral lenses offer exceptional stability because they vault over the cornea and rest on the white part of your eye (the sclera).
This design means they’re much less likely to dislodge during physical activity compared to other contact lens options. You can jump, run, and lift without worrying about your lenses shifting or falling out.
All-Day Comfort
The unique fluid reservoir between the lens and your cornea keeps your eyes moist throughout your workout. This design reduces irritation and dryness, even during lengthy training sessions or in challenging environments like air-conditioned gyms.
Crystal Clear Vision
With scleral lenses, you’ll enjoy sharp, stable vision that enhances both safety and performance. Clear sight helps you maintain proper form while lifting, navigate gym equipment confidently, and focus better on your fitness goals.
Protection from Environmental Factors
Scleral lenses create a protective barrier against sweat, dust, and dry air – common irritants in workout environments. This protection helps maintain comfort and clear vision throughout your exercise routine.
Smart Workout Tips for Scleral Lens Wearers
Breathing Techniques Matter
When lifting weights, avoid holding your breath during exertion. This mistake can increase pressure inside your eyes. Instead, develop a steady breathing pattern for each exercise – typically exhaling during the effort phase and inhaling during the recovery phase.
Hydration Is Key
Staying well-hydrated supports overall eye health and comfort. Drink plenty of water before, during, and after your workouts to help maintain the moisture balance in your eyes and prevent dryness.
Learn more about hydration strategies for those with keratoconus during workouts.
Maintain Proper Hygiene
Keep a clean towel handy to wipe away sweat, and resist touching or rubbing your eyes during workouts. After exercising, follow your regular lens cleaning routine if you need to remove them.
Progressive Training Approach
If you’re new to working out with scleral lenses, start with lighter weights and shorter sessions. This approach gives your eyes time to adjust to the new experience while minimizing potential discomfort.
Listen to Your Body
Pay attention to how your eyes feel during different activities. If you notice any discomfort, fogging, or vision changes, take a break and assess whether your lenses need attention.
Optimizing Your Workout Environment
Gym Workouts
Gyms present unique challenges like shared equipment and varying air quality. Bring your own clean towel, use hand sanitizer regularly, and be mindful of fans or air conditioning that might cause eye dryness.
Home Fitness Routines
Working out at home gives you control over your environment. Set up your space with good lighting to reduce glare and keep your equipment clean to minimize dust or particles that could irritate your eyes.
Outdoor Activities
Scleral lenses are excellent for outdoor fitness because they protect against wind and environmental irritants. However, consider wearing sunglasses or a hat for added protection on particularly bright or windy days.
Want even more movement tips? These keratoconus-friendly techniques can help.
Warning Signs to Watch For
Even with the stability of scleral lenses, keep an eye out for these signals during your workout:
- Sudden discomfort or irritation
- Foggy or cloudy vision
- Redness that persists after exercise
- Unusual sensitivity to light
If you experience any of these symptoms, remove your lenses safely, clean them according to your eye doctor’s instructions, and reinsert if comfortable. If problems continue, consult your eye care professional before resuming exercise with your lenses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Living an Active Life with Keratoconus
Keratoconus doesn’t have to limit your fitness journey. With scleral lenses, you can pursue a wide range of physical activities with confidence and clear vision. From weight training to cardio, yoga to outdoor adventures, these specialized lenses provide the stability and comfort needed to stay active.
My own journey from struggling with vision limitations to enjoying clear sight during workouts has been transformative. Scleral lenses haven’t just improved my vision – they’ve enhanced my overall quality of life and allowed me to continue my passion for fitness without compromise.
Remember that your keratoconus journey is unique, and what works for me might need adjustments for you. Always consult with your eye care specialist about your specific situation and follow their guidance on lens care and activity recommendations.
Very Proud To Announce
Want to see what’s inside? Click the book cover, which is also available in audiobook format, to read a free sample on Amazon. Discover how the “Clear Vision Window” concept can transform how you manage life with keratoconus.
If you find the sample valuable, please consider purchasing the complete book. Your purchase supports the keratoconus community while giving you access to all the practical strategies I’ve developed over three decades.
If you do purchase, I’d appreciate an honest review—it helps others with keratoconus find this resource.
Final Thoughts
Scleral lenses have revolutionized how those of us with keratoconus approach fitness and active lifestyles. With proper care and a few sensible precautions, these remarkable lenses allow us to participate fully in workout routines that keep us healthy and strong.
Don’t let concerns about your lenses hold you back from staying fit. The stability, comfort, and clear vision provided by scleral lenses make them excellent companions for almost any workout regimen. Embrace the possibilities they offer and enjoy the freedom of active living with keratoconus.
Disclaimer
This article reflects personal experience and general information. Always consult with your eye care professional for personalized advice about your specific condition and needs.