Exercising while you are under the weather...

NikkiDerrig386

Is it bad to workout when you are sick or does it depend on the illness?
(ie cold, flu, sinucitis)

NikkiDerrig386

Is it bad to workout when you are sick or does it depend on the illness?
(ie cold, flu, sinucitis)

Nich0le

I have heard several things. The flu probably not the best idea, a cold it depends on how you feel and sinusitis your only concern would be whether or not your ears are infected or building fluid because this would cause a balance problem.

There's no harm in taking a couple of days to get better when you are sick, especially if your body is telling you to rest. Pushing it can make your illness last longer or get worse! :flowerforyou:

NikkiDerrig386

Well I took a week off because Chicago got hit with storm after storm and then last week I was so busy I only worked once and now I am having sinuse issues today. I feel like crap! I really need to work out and who know how the end of this week is going to look with new years. I think I am going to go to the gym anyways and if I feel that bad I can just leave.

1Corinthians13

Yeah, it really just depends on the day. Sometimes, I can have a cold and run miles. Other times, I have a cold and can barely lift my head. So I think you're right to go for it - I love it when you really don't feel like going but then you kick *kitten* anyway!!

NikkiDerrig386

OMG nothing is better than that. There are times when I tought I would just walk right out because I just didnt feel like it! Then I walk out like wow what an great work out!

Tiddle

It depends on whats wrong with me, if it's just a little cold, I'll normally go for a run....and I'll normally feel better after. but if it's anything worse, ie. upset tummy, or a chest cold where I cant breath/keep coughing, I'll rest and wait till I'm feeling better.

stephiehobbs

The general rule of thumb for this is that if you're sick from the neck-up (sore throat, stuffy nose, etc), then doing some light exercise can actually help clear your sinuses and make you feel better.

If you're having any symptoms below the neck, it's better to just take it easy.

And remember, your body naturally burns more calories when fighting a cold or flu! So don't stress about gaining or anything. Just keep yourself hydrated, and eat healthy!

NikkiDerrig386

So I went and worked out yesterday. Did yoga 20 mins, lifted lbs, and then did 15 mins cardio. When I did cardio I couldnt do to much. I am so glad I did a little yesterday b/c today I feel 10x's worse than yesterday!

lessertess

I think it depends on the illness. If I'm having sinus problems, a headache, cramps, and even a mild cold, then exercise seems to help. For the flu....stay in bed.

I also think it depends on the intensity level of the exercise. Yoga always feels good but a really high intensity cardio workout might be a bit much when you're ill.