Ah, sniffle season. As if colder weather isn’t enough, being afflicted with the sniffles can take a lot out of you and interrupt your daily flow of life. Especially when it comes to working out and staying fit. Skipping the treadmill for a day or two might make it hard to get started again but the question is, in situations like these, is it okay to exercise?
Moderation is the key. Mild to moderate physical activity is usually OK if your symptoms are not serious. Exercise may even help you feel better by opening your nasal passages temporarily to help you breath better.If you are feeling bad, you may want to consider a walk instead of a run. Take the intensity down or do a regenerative activity like yoga or Pilates because if you don’t feel great, it may not be the best day to do your sprints.
When it comes to working out when you are under the weather, here are some rules of thumb to follow:
- Exercise is usually OK if your signs and symptoms are all “above the neck” such as the sniffles.
- Don’t exercise if your signs and symptoms are “below the neck” such as an upset stomach.
Nevertheless, let your body be your guide. If you feel up to it then a workout just might help. The best way to avoid the problem is not to get the sniffles in the first place. Exercise in general can help boost your body’s natural defenses.Thirty minutes of regular exercise three to four times a week has been shown to raise immunity, which can help stave of catching the sniffle this season.
