Is it ok to
workout when you are sick?
By: Nancy Howard :
10/10/2009 6:37:05 AM
When temperatures begin to dip, it isn't too
unusual to see a rise in the number of people walking around
with the sniffles and the dreaded runny nose. Much of this has
to do with the colder temperatures outside while the warm, dry
air inside becomes a breeding ground for these viruses.
It is important to note that a cold is not the flu. While colds
and the flu are both caused from viruses and can share common
symptoms, colds tend to have milder symptoms, such as a runny
nose, and according to the
Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention colds generally do not result in other
health related issues such as pneumonia.
Flu on the other hand, can be quite contagious, lead to fever,
aches and pains, chills, upper respiratory symptoms, a cough and
other more serious health related risks such as pneumonia, which
may or may not require hospitalization.
Many health experts advise one to continue an exercise regimen
at a moderate pace but avoid doing any high intensity workouts
if you have a cold, however, now is not the time push your body
into some high intensity activity.
So when is it OK to keep on exercising
if you are under the weather?
·
You do not have a fever.
·
Your symptoms are limited to the head only, in other words you
are only experiencing symptoms above the neck, for example you
have a runny or congested nose.
·
You have no other signs or symptoms.
However if you have the following
symptoms, it is best to wait until you are feeling better to get
back to your routine.
·
Fever or chills
·
Cough
·
Lethargy or aches and pains
·
Swollen glands
While being sick is difficult, especially if you are well into
the routine of working out or trying to meet a goal, know that
illness and exercise are both stressors on the body. Pushing
yourself too hard and not allowing proper recovery may only
prolong your illness or worsen your symptoms. Remember living a
healthy lifestyle is a life-long journey so missing a few days
or weeks will not undo all your hard work. Allow time for your
body to recover and know that you will be back to your routine
sooner than later, if you give enough time for your body to
heal.
Have you had a cold or flu this season?
If yes, did it keep you from working out? Have you received the
seasonal flu shot this year? |
