Avoid working out when you're sick - flu or no flu

Wednesday, November 04, 2009 6:54 AM  |  Printer friendly version | E-mail to a friend |

Q: With all the H1N1 flu going around, is it OK to work out when you are not feeling 100 percent?

A: Great question with all the flu this season, especially H1N1. We'd better be safe than sorry.

My staff and I and other YMCA members would rather you stay home. Don't get me wrong, we love having you, but when you are "under the weather," you don't do anyone, especially yourself, a favor by working out, even when you don't have the flu.

The common cold is the most diagnosed and frequent infection that affects all ages today. Except in the elderly, frail or newborns, colds are not especially dangerous. Colds generally take care of themselves in seven to 10 days and don't require special treatment other than rest. You can ease aches and pains with over-the-counter pain relievers. Most doctors recommend rest and lots of fluids.

The flu (influenza) is a contagious virus common between the fall and spring when temperatures and immune systems are at their lowest. The flu is spread through direct contact and airborne germs, which are released into the air through coughing and sneezing. (Do you now understand why we want you to stay at home and rest?)

The easiest and most effective solution is to get a flu shot before November when the flu season begins. Flu strains change year to year so an annual shot is recommended. And as we all know, the H1N1 shot/nasal spray is flying out the door like pancakes. Washing your hands frequently and keeping a safe distance from flu sufferers help prevent you from getting the flu.

So if you are knowingly sick and come to work out anyway, you aren't only affecting everyone who is there but you are not doing your body any justice. Doctors recommend in both cases rest and plenty of fluids. If you work out anyway (believe me, I have personal experience), your body is not able to recover from your workout. Your whole system is fighting to get you well and does not have time to recover your muscles after your workout. So you'll be sore. And you were already aching. Now throw some major muscle soreness on top of that and see how that feels. Doesn't it make more sense to rest and hydrate for a couple of days (or longer) so you can get back on your feet and workouts again?

Your body will thank you and we are thanking you. Guess what? We can't wait for you to come back after you are not contagious anymore and are feeling like yourself again.