Exercising When You’re Sick

Once an exercise plan is firmly entrenched in the regular routine, breaking out of it can be a real problem. There are times, however, when it’s simply best to skip a day or two. This is especially so when sickness is a concern. If the symptoms go beyond the common cold, it’s often wiser to sit it out then to try and dive in and ignore the problem.
There are a number of reasons why it’s just a good idea to take an off day or two than try to keep an exercise routine on track when the body’s battling the flu, a stomach bug or some other infection. Here are some of the best reasons to give it a rest:
• Endurance isn’t likely to be in tact – Completing a regular workout routine while sick can be a near impossible task. Chances are the endurance level just won’t be where it should and getting the most out of the effort just won’t be possible. This can lead to frustration that may linger even after the illness has passed.
• Greater likelihood for injury – The fact of the matter is people are just not on their game, so to say, when they’re sick. It’s best to take a day or two off than risk not being completely focused on working out. It’s just all too easy to overlook a safety measure or rush through warm ups. When this happens, injuries are more likely.
• Chance of increasing the number of sick days – When the body is sick, it needs rest. Exert too much and energy needed to get better will be zapped. This can make an illness worse and may extend the number of necessary recovery days.
Getting Back on Track
Once an illness passes, it’s okay to try and get back into the normal routine. Depending on how serious the illness was, however, it might take some time to get back at it at full speed. With this in mind, try these tips to get back into the workout routine:
• Start back slowly. Don’t push or overexert.
• Work with a trainer for any recommended alterations to the workout plan during the post-recovery period.
• Stay hydrated. This is important all the time, but it can be especially so in the days following an illness.
Getting sick is no fun, but that doesn’t mean it has to sideline a fitness routine forever. It’s okay to take a few days to rest up. Just get back in there when it’s possible.