Should You Workout When You’re Sick?

Posted by amy in News

Question: Should you workout when you are sick?

Answer: It depends.

Explanation:

If you have a head cold – sore throat, runny nose, or headache – then you can probably tough through a workout.  People that exercise statistically get sick less often and for less time than those who do not.  You might also find that getting in a good workout will help you shake off that yucky feeling.  However, please make sure to try to keep your germs contained.  Wash your hands, machines, take your own mat to yoga or pilates and contain your sneezing and coughing.  Getting other gym-goers sick is not cool.

If you have the flu – fever, chest congestion, achy all over – then you should probably spend you energy on resting up to feel better. Sometimes its OK to miss a workout so that your body can use all of its energy to recover and get rid of that virus!  Sleep is one of the best healers so make sure you get a bunch of it!

A simple rule of thumb:  Head cold, be bold and workout.  If it’s in your chest, then you need to rest!

Don’t look now, but flu season is right around the corner!  Have you gotten your flu shot yet?  Might be something you think about!  << Read: Should I Get a Flu Shot? >>

Fit Links:
Signs you’re too sick to workout – CNN
The Claim: Lack of sleep increases the risk of catching a cold – NY Times