Exercise and the common cold

January is often the time when people begin to make theirway back to the gym and commit (or recommit) to their choices regarding healthyliving: eat better, exercise more, stress less. It is also the time when cold & flu season peaks.   

A nasty little bug made its way into our house this weekendand it took my eldest son down for the count. His symptoms included a high fever, lethargic, cough, and a general feelingof malaise.   If you get the flu, youknow you are not going to get out of bed to attend a fitness class.  You know that the besttreatment to get over your bug would be to stay home & rest.  But what should you do if you are fightingthe common cold?

There is little reason to limit exercise for minor colds,but if you do decide to exercise,  it’s probably better if you take it easy during your workout.  Consider a shorter, less intense routine.  Increase your hydration as well as foodsources that are high in Vitamin C, as this vitamin may play some role inpreventing and treating colds.  Finally,consider the neck check, and exercise appropriately for your condition.  If symptoms are above the neck, exercise maybe an option.  If symptoms are below theneck, rest is recommended to allow time for recovery. 

Pregnant women are encouraged to consult with their primaryhealth care provider before they engage in exercise,  before they start a fitness program or if they are feeling unwell. 

Things to remember:

1)     When we are ill our muscles are weaker, therebyincreasing the risk of injury

2)     Upper respiratory and sinus involvement limitsbreathing

3)     The extra energy required to workout will reduceyour ability to fight illness

4)     Do not exercise when you have a fever

5)     See your Doctor if your cold/flu symptoms becomeworse or persistent