Our Exercise Physiology team is regularly asked If you should still exercise if you feel yourself getting sick or if you’re just not feeling 100%.
Should you push on with your normal exercise load in the hope it might help your immune system shake off the illness? Or will that stress your body and make it worse?
As a general rule of thumb, it is okay to continue exercising when sick. Exercise can be modified to reduce the intensity and length of your activity to ensure you don’t miss a workout. For example, walking instead of running or doing bodyweight training instead of a heavy weights session.
When Winter rolls around and so do the colds, Flu’s, and Bugs it is best to avoid exercise if your symptoms are chest down (You have a fever, feel high levels of fatigue, or are experiencing widespread muscle aches).
If you are feeling run down or under the weather, avoid group exercise to ensure you are not passing on bugs to others who may be vulnerable (this includes your gym class and trainer!).
Exercise is a great tool for strengthening your immune system, however, you don’t want to overload. Remember to stay hydrated, prioritise sleep, and alter your training load until you’re back to being 100%. Your Exercise Physiologist will be able to manage/alter your exercise workload and help you attain your goals after a well-needed rest.
If you need guidance with exercise or you’re looking for a specific exercise program tailored to your injuries, health status, and goals then contact our exercise physiologists to discuss how they can help you today.