Feeling Under the Weather…Do You Skip the Workout? by C.F.

You’ve done an excellent job sticking to your new exercise routine for the New Year.  You’ve been so consistent too!  Unexpectedly, you’ve come down with a cold or flu.  You are conflicted.  Do you swap your spin class for the sofa?  On one hand, you don’t want to deviate from your awesome fitness program because it makes you feel so good.  On the other hand, you don’t want to prolong your recovery or make your symptoms worse.  There is a simple solution to this conundrum.  The answer depends whether or not your symptoms are “above the neck” or “below the neck”.

Above the Neck

• Symptoms: Runny nose, nasal congestion, sneezing, sore throat, or headache.
• Lay low or okay to go?  Okay to go!  BUT lower the intensity and duration of your workout.
• Disclaimer: Use common sense and listen to your body.  If your “above the neck” symptoms are severe or paired with a fever, definitely skip it.

Below the Neck

• Symptoms: Fever, aches, chest congestion, stomach cramps, cough, or vomiting.
• Lay low or okay to go?  Lay low and rest up.  If you have a fever, you don’t want to elevate your temperature.  Plus, you need to conserve energy to fight off your sickness.  Resume your workout once you’re better. 

There are a few considerations if you’re “above the neck” and planning to work out.  First of all, it’s important to stay hydrated.  Sickness naturally predisposes you to dehydration.  Continuously drink fluids before, during, and after you exercise.  Additionally, be cognizant not to spread germs or pick up new ones if you workout at a gym.  Sanitize your equipment before and after use.  Finally, don’t overdo it.  You don’t want to get worse from a workout that is too aggressive.  When in doubt, always listen to your body or ask a physician.