Feeling Sick: When is it Safe to Train? at He's Fit

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Feeling Sick: When is it Safe to Train?

Posted April 13, 2008 at 04:00 PM by Donnell Peavy

Section: His Fitness, Injuries & Rehab, His Health, Physical Health, Lifestyle Health

sick man Despite your best efforts to remain in good health, you are bound to get sick at some point. You are human, after all. When that dark day does come, some people stay in bed. Others, however, attempt to train anyway, which begs the question – is it okay to train while you are sick?

The first consideration should be courtesy and public safety. If you belong to a public gym, it would probably be a good idea not to work out, as you are putting your unknowing fellow patrons at risk of getting sick. Courtesy and safety aside, you must assess yourself – where are your symptoms located? If they are above the neck – runny nose, sinus problems, sore throat, etc. Then, exercising may prove beneficial, as it can clear the sinuses and increase blood circulation.

If your symptoms are below the neck – body aching, diarrhea or nausea for example, stay in bed. Symptoms below the neck can indicate a nastier virus – like the flu – which is hard on the immune system. You should never exercise if you have an infection. The addition of exercise makes it worse, as your body needs to use the energy to fight the infection.

Also be mindful of your temperature. If you have a fever, the above the neck rules are null and void – do not train. Your temperature is already elevated due to having the fever, and exercising will only raise it more. Not good.

Remember to exercise caution and courtesy when you are sick. You don’t want to make your situation worse, nor do you want to take anyone else of the action.

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