Exercising when sick...

WillyQ711

So i've had this annoying flu and the symptoms that come with it for 2 weeks now. I've noticed that every time I've been getting better, after I workout, as great as I feel, I get worse later that day or in the evening. I know that working out supposedly brings your immune system down, but I had a trainer in the past that always said that was "rubbish". All I know is that I had a great Sunday Mtn Biking, warm weather, then got home feeling like crap again, nd today not so hot either. I keep a positive mental frame of thought that this is nothing, but not helping. I'll do some research, but I get conflicting responses. What's everyone's take on this?

garlic7girl

I have always read/heard you go by how your body responds. So if you do a workout and feel worse then don't do it again. Also, if you do workout maybe do a very light workout...nothing strenuous at all. Remember when you are sick your immune system goes into overdrive to help heal you so resting is imperative!! Drink plenty fluids rest and then see how you feel in a day or two.
Now if you have flu like symptoms longer then two weeks with no improvement I say it is time to call the D-O-C-T-O-R.

WillyQ711

OK, looks like I got a good answer on an article posted from Dr Laskowski at the Mayo Clinic. Good rule to follow....


Edward R. Laskowski, M.D.

Mild to moderate physical activity is usually OK if you have a garden-variety cold and no fever. Exercise may even help you feel better by opening your nasal passages and temporarily relieving nasal congestion.

As a general guide for exercise and illness, consider this:

Exercise is usually OK if your signs and symptoms are all "above the neck" — symptoms you may have with a common cold, such as runny nose, nasal congestion, sneezing or minor sore throat. Consider reducing the intensity and length of your workout, though, or you may feel worse. Instead of going for a run, take a walk, for example.
Don't exercise if your signs and symptoms are "below the neck" — such as chest congestion, hacking cough or upset stomach.
Don't exercise if you have a fever, fatigue or widespread muscle aches.

Let your body be your guide. If you have a cold and feel miserable, take a break. Scaling back or taking a few days off from exercise when you're sick shouldn't affect your performance. Resume your normal workout routine gradually as you begin to feel better. And check with your doctor if you aren't sure if it's OK to exercise.

Remember if you do choose to exercise when you're sick, reduce the intensity and length of your workout. If you attempt to exercise at your normal intensity when you have more than a simple cold, you could risk more serious injury or illness.