If you have a cold, you may be wondering if exercising while you’re sick is a good idea. Exercise is a great way to keep your body fit and healthy, but a cold can limit your activity. You also need to take precautions to avoid spreading your infection to others. Some exercises can actually worsen a cold. Here are some tips to help you decide whether or not you should exercise while you’re sick.
The old rule of thumb is to avoid intense activity while you’re sick. This is because it can stress your system and cause the dreaded wet cough. However, moderate cardio is a great way to clear congestion, boost energy levels, and improve overall fitness. It doesn’t have to be done at high intensity, and your doctor or physical therapist may be able to suggest a variety of activities to choose from.
There are a number of other factors that can affect your decision to exercise while you’re sick. For example, you may be less strong and feel less motivated to work out. Additionally, your immune system may be weakened. Consequently, you may be more at risk for catching a second cold. Also, if you’re not used to exercising regularly, it’s a good idea to ease back into your routine. To determine your recovery time, you’ll want to consider how many days you’ve been sick. Once you’re back on track, you’ll be ready to ramp up your workouts.
The Lung Association provides some useful advice on fitness and respiratory illnesses, including how to tell if you’re healthy enough to exercise. It says that a moderate exercise regimen is generally safe for people with a cold, but it’s important to consult with your doctor.
Another good rule of thumb is the “neck rule.” This is a measure of the simplest, most logical way to determine if you should exercise while you’re sick. Symptoms below the neck include chills, fever, aches and pains, and chest congestion. While the symptoms above the neck may be mild enough to allow for some moderate exercise, those below the neck should be avoided.
Aside from exercise, there are a number of other things you can do to help prevent a cold. For instance, you can keep your hands covered with tissues or hand sanitizer, and you can drink more fluids to flush out your nasal passages. Alternatively, you can go out for a walk or jog in the fresh air. Keep in mind that you should wash your hands after you use your gym equipment. And remember that it’s best to avoid using the treadmill, because it can lead to more infections.
The best way to know for sure if you should exercise while you’re ill is to listen to your body. Your immune system is important, and you should try to fight the cold as soon as it develops. In addition to the obvious, you should avoid exercising if you have a severe sore throat or cough.