Should You Workout When You Are Sick?

We have all been there, it starts with the sniffles and within days turns into a can’t-function-cold that derails your days. Coming down with a cold can leave you feeling tired, grumpy, and incredibly uncomfortable.

While you may not be able to get out of work, there is one place that you may want to think twice before heading to…. the gym!

So should you workout when you are sick? It may seem like a good idea, but it really is not the best, and will prolong your cold/sickness.

So when should you skip the gym and when is it okay to get your workout in?

 

When Should You Skip The Gym?

The answer to that is when you have a fever. Exercise can actually decrease your bodies ability to fight your illness, especially during the fever stage of a cold.

Similarly, if you experience body aches, nausea or shortness of breath you should skip the activities for the day.  These signs are all a big way of your body telling you to slow down, take it easy and get some rest!

Can You Work Out With A Simple Cold?

While you definitely can, you really shouldn’t. Even the simplest of colds should be cause for slowing down. Your body may bounce back much faster if you give it an appropriate amount of rest. Plus, germs spread really easily in the gym!

When Can You Head Back To The Gym?

The first 3 to 4 days of any illness are prime time for the body to fight it, so take it easy for those first few days. Check in with yourself after the first few days and if you absolutely feel up for it, head back to the gym for a light workout. Try to stay away from more rigorous activities.

Keep in mind that the gym can be a place where a ton of germs live and is often where many people catch respiratory infections. So steering clear of the gym when you’re sick will always be in your best interest.

What If I HAVE To Workout?

If you just can’t stay away, be sure to wipe down any machines or weights that you use before and after to avoid picking up any other bugs that may be lingering around the gym, and spreading your own germs.

Another great tip is to stay hydrated. Your body needs all the help it can get and staying hydrated is one of the best ways you can fight any cold or flu.

So the next time you find yourself with the sniffles, do yourself and everyone else a favor. Stay home for a few days, eat nourishing foods, hydrate your body and when you are feeling a little better, make your way back to your workouts!