Can I Exercise With a Cold

December 11 2013

Can I Exercise With a Cold

It’s that time of year again. Right around mid-December is when the cold virus reaches its peak. If you’re a health/fitness-conscious individual who visits the gym every other day like clockwork, you might be wondering whether or not it’s safe to exercise with a cold. Some people naturally assume that exercise is a bad idea since it places additional strain on the body. Besides, we’ve always been told that rest is the key to recovering from a cold.

According to the Centers For Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 1 billion (yes, that’s billion with a B) people will catch some strain of the cold virus this year. Colds are spread through a highly contagious virus known as the rhinoviruses. Individuals infected with this virus may spread it to others by touching door handles, sneezing, shaking hands, or direct content. This is why it’s important to err on the side of caution if you believe you are infected with the rhinovirus.

Don’t Visit The Gym If You Have a Cold!

Because the cold virus is contagious, it’s recommended that you stay home and avoid going to the gym until it clears up. Turning a blind eye to your cold virus and hitting the gym in full force leaves other gym-goers susceptible to the virus, and that’s how it’s able to spread so quickly throughout the country.

You can read more about ways to protect yourself from germs at the gym by clicking here, but individuals currently suffering from a cold should avoid visiting the gym.

Light Workouts Are Okay

Contrary to what some people may believe, you don’t have to stay cooped up in the bed for 24 hours a day if you are suffering from a cold. In fact, getting up and performing some light workouts may help alleviate some of the symptoms. Try going for a light jog around the neighborhood. Moving around on your feet performing cardio encourages better blood flow, and this could actually speed up you recovery times. Going for an outdoor jog during the cool December months may also clear up sinus congestion.

Try to avoid intense strength training or HIIT workouts until the cold has run its course. Lifting a couple weights here and there is perfectly fine, but you should mainly stick with light-to-moderate cardio when you are sick.

Cold viruses may deplete your energy levels, but you can counteract this effect by drinking an electrolyte-rich sports drink or beverage. Remember to drink plenty of fluids when you sick, as hydration is key to a fast recovery.