Should I Exercise With Cold Symptoms?

Exercising with a cold can have health impacts.

Your Cold May Be Mild

It is important not to overdo it when exercising with cold symptoms.

Your exercise activity should depend on how severe your cold symptoms are. If you have mild cold symptoms that only include a stuffy nose, for example, it is still possible to exercise. However, you should take it easy during a workout and don't engage in strenuous exercise if you feel a cold coming on. It is also recommended that you drink plenty of fluids when exercising with cold symptoms as this will help keep you hydrated and flush toxins out of your system. And, you should continue to get plenty of rest after exercising with cold symptoms.

Listen To Your Body

Sick people in a gym can infect others.

Strenuous exercise when you feel cold symptoms occurring can lead to fatigue. This could further weaken the body's immune system and lead to worse cold symptoms. Over-training in a weakened state is never a good idea. Listen to your body and take a break from exercising when necessary. The time off will help your body recuperate and get you healthy again sooner.

Bottom Line

The American College of Sports Medicine states, "People who exercise report fewer colds than their inactive peers." A survey by the college found that "61 percent of 700 recreational runners reported fewer colds since beginning to run." However, it is also important to listen to your body, acknowledge when you are sick, and avoid exercise that will further impair your immune system and lead to worse symptoms.

References

• IDEA Health and Fitness Association: Feeling Ill? Exercise Do's and Don'ts
• American College of Sports Medicine: Exercise and the Common Cold
• New York Times: Don't Starve a Cold of Exercise