It’s cold and flu season, and deciding whether a workout will make you feel better or worse can be exhausting. Instead of searching the internet for hours trying to find a clear answer, use the FitClub recommendations below.
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Fever. Sit it out. Your body is already working hard to fight the illness and it’s dangerous to further raise your body temperature when you already have a fever. Instead, focus on giving your body the rest and fluids it needs to support your immune system.
Above the neck symptoms. If your cold is limited to symptoms occurring above your neck (i.e. stuffy nose), a workout might make you feel better. You may need to consider a shorter, or less intensive workout than you had planned, but light exercise may alleviate congestion. You could walk on the treadmill instead of run, or trade your weight lifting night for a round of full-body stretching and foam rolling. A lighter intensity day doesn’t have to be a wasted day.
Below the neck symptoms. If your symptoms are below the neck (coughing, body aches), it’s time for a rest day. If you have any stomach discomfort or nausea, consider taking a rest day.
Listen to your body. If you’re exceptionally tired or lethargic, listen to your body’s call for a rest day. No one likes to take a break from their workout regimen when you have been working hard and making progress, but doing too much when you’re feeling ill may set you back further. If you feel well enough to exercise, give yourself complete permission to stop when you feel fatigued or dehydrated. Listening to our bodies is crucial!
Consult your medical professionals. If your symptoms don’t resolve with rest and fluids, contact your medical professionals and ask whether resuming your exercise routine will speed your recover or set you back.
If you’re forced to take a rest day to recover from an illness, focus on a clean, healthy diet and getting well. You can use the time off to rest mentally and refresh your goals and training plan so you feel energized and excited to get back to your routine when your body is ready.
If you feel well enough to exercise, keep your fellow FitClub members safe from your germs. Wash your hands frequently, thoroughly clean your machines, and ensure that you are covering your sneezes appropriately to avoid spreading your germs.
If you’re not already a FitClub member or actively working on your healthy goals, cold and flu season is a great time to make your immune system fitter and healthier. Even the best of us get sick from time to time, but a regular exercise routine will give your body what it needs to fight back against the germs and viruses you may encounter.
