Should You Workout When Sick?

No matter how well you take care of yourself, it is inevitable that at some point, you will catch a cold or some other type of illness. There are germs everywhere, and our body's immune system can't protect us from everything that comes our way. So, the question then becomes, should we continue to workout out when the sickness hits? Or give our bodies a little bit of a break to let them recover?  However, sometimes there is not a clear cut answer to this question and we need to listen to our bodies before deciding what to do.

• Assess your Symptoms
• As a general rule of thumb, if you sickness is above the neck (runny nose, sore throat), some light physical activity would be OK, but if it is more in your chest or you are experiencing a fever, avoid physical activity and let your body rest.
• Monitor the Intensity
• Even if you are having "above the neck" symptoms, your body still may not have much energy to do a full blown workout. Try something a little more low key such as a yoga class, walk outside or a light weight lifting session. Be sure to also stay well hydrated, as your body needs more fluid when it is sick.
• Avoid the Gym
• While it may be ok to do a light workout, try to keep your germs to yourself. Stick to an at-home workout or a light walk around the neighborhood where you are not spreading your germs and sickness to others.
• Ask your Doctor
• If you are still unsure, ask your doctor what his/her recommendations are. If they recommend taking some time off from working out, be sure to ask them when a good time to return to the gym would be, given your particular diagnosis. 

As always, you know your body better than anyone. So listen to what it is telling you. Let it rest if it needs rest, or move a little if your are feeling up to it.