Should you work out if you’re sick?

This is a great question! It’s sometimes hard to get a straight answer, but we have some tips to help you decide when to tough it out and workout anyway, and when to rest your body.

First, it’s good to remember that regular exercise will help you prevent colds, so don’t skip the gym if you aren’t sick. Exercise jump starts the immune system and can reduce the number of colds you get. Get in and get that workout done.

Rule of thumb for illness and exercise: 

It is usually safe to exercise with a cold. If it’s above the neck (runny nose, sneezing, nasal congestion, and minor sore throat), it’s safe to workout. If it’s below the neck (chest congestion), you may need to rest. Avoid taking decongestants before exercise though, because they can raise the heart rate and cause your heart to pump too hard. Workouts should be at a lower intensity than normal when you have a cold.

If you have fever, chills, fatigue, muscle aches, or upset stomach, then you should skip your workout.

Remember, only you know your body best, so you have to listen to your body and make the best decision for you.