January is often the time when people begin to make their
way back to the gym and commit (or recommit) to their choices regarding healthy
living: eat better, exercise more, stress less.
It is also the time when cold & flu season peaks.
A nasty little bug made its way into our house this weekend
and it took my eldest son down for the count.
His symptoms included a high fever, lethargic, cough, and a general feeling
of malaise. If you get the flu, you
know you are not going to get out of bed to attend a fitness class. You know that the best
treatment to get over your bug would be to stay home & rest. But what should you do if you are fighting
the common cold?
There is little reason to limit exercise for minor colds,
but if you do decide to exercise, it’s probably better if you take it easy during your workout. Consider a shorter, less intense routine. Increase your hydration as well as food
sources that are high in Vitamin C, as this vitamin may play some role in
preventing and treating colds. Finally,
consider the neck check, and exercise appropriately for your condition. If symptoms are above the neck, exercise may
be an option. If symptoms are below the
neck, rest is recommended to allow time for recovery.
Pregnant women are encouraged to consult with their primary
health care provider before they engage in exercise, before they start a fitness program or if they are feeling unwell.
Things to remember:
1)
When we are ill our muscles are weaker, thereby
increasing the risk of injury
2)
Upper respiratory and sinus involvement limits
breathing
3)
The extra energy required to workout will reduce
your ability to fight illness
4)
Do not exercise when you have a fever
5)
See your Doctor if your cold/flu symptoms become
worse or persistent
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