Working out when sick?

I started the couch25k on Tuesday, and since then I have developed a major cold, sniffling,sneezing, coughing, general aches and pains. I mean I feel like crap.

Today is my day two of week one. Should I push myself to do it or wait until I recover from this cold and start over? It is pretty important to me, to stick with it I just don't want to over do it, and make the cold last longer.

Any Suggestions will be appreciated.

 

I've been sick since sunday afternoon. I haven't been able to workout because my breathing is comprimised and if I breathe too heavily I start coghing really bad. I'm bummed because I like to workout everyday, but I have to wait. However, I have still been doing my 30 min lunch walk because it is a much lighter activity. Is there anything you can do that will keep you active but not push you too much?

 I have exercised with a cold.  It's true that you will not be able to do as much as when you are not sick, but it does help you feel better for a while afterward.  Just don't overdo it and make sure you stay properly hydrated.




I included the information from the following website.
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/exercise/AN0 1097


Yes, you can continue with mild or moderate activity if you have a cold with no fever. Exercise may even help you feel better — by temporarily relieving nasal congestion.

So how do you determine if you're too sick to exercise? Here's a good rule of thumb: If your symptoms are "above the neck" — such as runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, or sore throat — you can proceed with your workout.

However, if your symptoms are "below the neck" — such as chest congestion or tightness, hacking cough, or upset stomach — you should postpone your workout. Also, you shouldn't exercise if you have a fever, fatigue or widespread muscle aches. Rarely, exercising with a fever has been associated with inflammation of the heart muscle (myocarditis).

As always, use common sense. If you're not feeling well but still want to exercise, reduce the intensity of your workout and listen to your body. If your symptoms worsen with exercise, stop and rest. Missing a few days of exercise isn't the end of the world.

I would still get outside and walk at least. The fresh air is good for your cold. Just listen to what your body is telling you and don't push it too hard. Getting in at least a walk will keep you motivated to continue your goals after your cold has passed. Good luck!

I have a cough and a terrible headache and body aches. I am not even trying to force myself to work out and make it worse. Working out tears down your body and if you're already feeling under the weather you might not be strong enough to fully recover. Plus, I just read in an article that you are a lot more prone to a respiratotory infection within 48 hours of working out. I want to exercise and look good, but I'm not going to sacrifice my health. The gym can wait a few days. My advice would be to get plenty of sleep and drink plenty of liquids before going full force again. That's what I am doing.

Feel better.

 

PS Good article deely617

Thanks guys.  I have already done my in home 2 mile walk this morning and it did make me feel better for a while..

I guess  I will just wait and see how I feel after work.

I know skipping a day isn't the end of the world, just don't want to fail myself before I get started.

I am hydrating, and taking it as easy as I can. lol.

I would recommend going swimming if have access to a pool. Take it easy though. It always makes me feel better when I have a cold, and it will clear out your head too! Then a nice sit in the hot tub...good on achy muscles. 

Sickness is the worst, hope you feel better soon!

Try having a hot, hot shower as hot as you can take it and that should help you clear up a bit. Make sure you are drinking tons of fluids. Try Pepermint tea or green tea durring the day and Chamomile at night to help relax you. Keep excersising if you can, but dont push yourself or you will crash.

Well, when I got home I felt a little better so I took off to do my couch2 5k ... and had decided as soon as I get tired I will turn around... Well I turned around back toward my house when I got tired.. and it just so happens I was exactly half way  and When I walked up to my door I had finished day 2 of week one couch25k..I am really proud of myself.

oh yeah by the way... the cold is getting better!(somewhat)