Should I work out while sick?

April 5, 2006 11:45 AM

I'm feeling a bit run down and have a slight cold -- is it better for me to skip my workout?

I've finally gotten my act together and have started working out 3-4x a week. It's a fairly strict program developed for me by a trainer who based it off my particular metabolism. It's all cardio, 45-60 minutes per workout.

My question is this -- I've gotten into the routine, and have successfully stuck to it for a while. However, today I feel somewhat sick (slight stomach woes and a slightly productive cough). Can I still work out? Or should I skip it and re-charge?

posted by o2b to Health & Fitness (7 answers total)

skip and recharge.
posted by special-k at 11:52 AM on April 5, 2006

the guideline I've heard is that if your symptoms are all above the neck, (like a stuffy nose) and you feel like working out, go ahead, but if your symptoms are below the neck (like yours) then you should skip it.

IANAD, etc., etc., etc.
posted by ambrosia at 11:56 AM on April 5, 2006

Ditto ambrosia's guideline.
posted by unknowncommand at 12:00 PM on April 5, 2006

I would shorten the work out on your sick days to a less intense version of what you do - like 20 minutes tops. Ambrosia's guidelines are correct. Unless you have a fever. Then you want to sleep.

A light work out where you stay extra hydrated, can really help with sinus problems, btw. Especially allergies.
posted by tkchrist at 12:21 PM on April 5, 2006

Skip the workout, but don't sit on the couch. Go take a light walk around the neighborhood instead.
posted by frogan at 1:12 PM on April 5, 2006

been done here, here, and here.
posted by yonation at 1:14 PM on April 5, 2006

When I become ill, I always feel better when I work out. After the workout, though, I always feel a lot worse. It's almost like the excersize makes the disease healthier. I suggest skipping.
posted by SPrintF at 6:55 PM on April 5, 2006