Comments on: Should I work out while sick?

Question: Should I work out while sick?

o2b — Wed, 05 Apr 2006 11:45:53 -0800

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?

By: special-k

special-k — Wed, 05 Apr 2006 11:52:29 -0800

skip and recharge.

By: ambrosia

ambrosia — Wed, 05 Apr 2006 11:56:13 -0800

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.

By: unknowncommand

unknowncommand — Wed, 05 Apr 2006 12:00:29 -0800

Ditto ambrosia's guideline.

By: tkchrist

tkchrist — Wed, 05 Apr 2006 12:21:06 -0800

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.

By: frogan

frogan — Wed, 05 Apr 2006 13:12:47 -0800

Skip the workout, but don't sit on the couch. Go take a light walk around the neighborhood instead.

By: yonation

yonation — Wed, 05 Apr 2006 13:14:25 -0800

been done here, here, and here.

By: SPrintF

SPrintF — Wed, 05 Apr 2006 18:55:53 -0800

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.