Have you ever woken up with a stuffy head, a pounding migraine, and the uncontrollable urge to smash your workout routine? You’re not the only one. Even the most dedicated fitness enthusiasts have struggled with the age-old dilemma of whether to go to the gym or stay at home when you are sick. What’s the truth? Should you put on your sneakers or should you give your body a rest? Let’s explore the truth about exercising when you are sick.
First things first, gym etiquette matters. Stay home if you are coughing, sneezing or feeling feverish. You and your fellow gym goers will thank you. No one wants to get sick while trying to work out. What if you are just feeling a little under the weather and the idea of skipping your workout makes you cringe. This is where things can get tricky.
Home workouts are now a commonplace for many of us, thanks to the pandemic. It’s hard to beat the convenience of exercising at home, but it can also be tempting to push yourself to work out even when you are sick. The problem is that your body may already be fighting an illness and the added stress of a high intensity workout could cause more harm than good. Consider that your immune system already works overtime. Do you want to add more stress?
Does this mean that you should binge-watch Netflix on your couch until you feel better? Not necessarily. Low-intensity exercises can boost your immune system, and help you recover faster. Think about walking, gentle stretching or a leisurely bicycle ride. It’s important to take it easy. You’re pushing yourself too hard if you’re feeling exhausted or gasping for air. Remember that the goal is to improve your health, not make it worse.
This is backed up by science. Studies show that moderate exercise can boost immunity, while intense workouts can have a negative effect. Finding the right balance is key.
In a world of fitness trends that come and go, there is one constant: Your health should always be put first. It’s not a universal solution to work out when you are sick. Give yourself permission to rest if you’re feeling awful. If you are feeling a bit under the weather, choose low-intensity exercises that make you feel better. Consistency is key. Pushing yourself too hard while sick can derail your progress.
