Exercising While Sick: Should You Do it?
By Steve Borkowski PT, MPT, MTC, CEAS
Is Exercising While Sick a Healthy Choice?
Whether or not it is healthy or detrimental to workout while you are sick is a common question asked by many fitness enthusiasts. Many health gurus suggest that exercising while sick can aid the immune system to fight off infection as it increases the bodies temperature. However, while it is important to stay active and maintain a regular exercise routine, working out while sick can have consequences that may hinder your recovery process.
Exercising While Sick
What Risks are There?
Working out while sick can put additional strain on your body, which may prolong your illness and make it more difficult to recover. When your body is fighting off an infection, it requires more energy and resources to do so. If you divert your energy towards exercise, your body may not have enough resources to fight off the infection effectively. Whether or not it is healthy or detrimental to exercise while you are sick also depends on the type and severity of your illness. If you have a mild cold or flu, it may be safe to continue your exercise routine at a reduced intensity. However, if you have a fever, body aches, or symptoms of a more serious illness, it is best to refrain from exercising altogether.
Are you Contagious?
Another factor to consider when deciding whether or not it is healthy or detrimental to workout while you are sick is the risk of spreading your illness to others. If you work out at a gym or in a group setting, you may expose others to your illness, which could have serious consequences for those with weakened immune systems or underlying health conditions. If you do decide to workout while you are sick, it is important to take precautions to minimize the risk of spreading your illness. This includes wiping down equipment before and after use, covering your mouth when coughing or sneezing, and washing your hands frequently.
Can you Handle it?
Are you Fit Enough to Handle it?
Whether or not it is healthy or detrimental to engage in exercise while you are sick also depends on your personal fitness level and exercise routine. If you are an experienced athlete or fitness enthusiast, you may be able to continue your exercise routine at a reduced intensity. However, if you are new to exercise or have a less intense routine, it may be best to take a break until you have fully recovered. It is also important to listen to your body when deciding whether or not to workout while you are sick. If you feel fatigued, dizzy, or have difficulty breathing, it is best to take a break and allow your body to rest and recover.
Key Factors to Consider in your Decision
In summary, exercising while you are sick depends on a variety of factors, including the type and severity of your illness, the risk of spreading your illness to others, and your personal fitness level and exercise routine. It is important to listen to your body and take precautions to minimize the risk of spreading your illness if you do decide to workout while sick. However, in most cases it is best to take a break from exercise until you have fully recovered to avoid prolonging your illness and hindering your recovery process.
Written By: Steve Borkowski PT, MPT, MTC, CEAS
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