Is It Okay To Exercise When Sick?

Exercise When Sick

Key highlights or summary

  • Exercising when sick may not be a good idea, especially doing intense workouts.
  • Mild exercising can provide health benefits if you have simple ailments like cough and cold.
  • Being physically active boosts immunity, helping to prevent and fight off infections. 
  • The decision to exercise when feeling unwell depends on the nature of your sickness.
  • Your body encounters various invaders daily, and while a strong immune system fights them off, falling sick indicates increased stress and energy demand on your body.
    It's generally okay to continue moderate exercise if symptoms are 'above the neck,' such as colds or allergies.
  • However, during illness, intense exercise can be overly stressful. Instead, low to moderate intensity activities like yoga, walking, or leisure cycling can be beneficial.
  • Light exercises can help with blood circulation and relieve nasal congestion. They improve immune surveillance and assist in fighting infections.
  • Avoid exercising if symptoms are 'below the neck,' like chest congestion, stomach upsets, fevers, fatigue, or muscle aches. Exercising with such symptoms can worsen your health.

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