Exercising When You Have A Cold Or Flu

Exercising when you have a cold or flu 

Regular exercise helps to strengthen the immune system by increasing white blood cells and also decreases stress hormones , which weaken the immune system.  While regular exercise is good for many things, there is a balance that is required, as exercising too hard each and every day can actually make you susceptible to the cold and flu. 

The question here remains: Should you exercise when you have a cold or flu? 

The answer? It depends. Depending on the type of illness and how you are feeling on any particular day, movement can worsen or better symptoms. Exercising raises our body temperature which doesn’t help when one already has elevated body temperatures, therefore exercise isn’t suggested to those with fevers. Exercise may also exacerbate a simple cough, so it’s important to not only consult a doctor, but also to listen to your body.  Light exercises, such as walking, are ideal as long as your symptoms do not worsen. 

In terms of preventing yourself or others  from getting sick, wiping equipment before and after use, and wearing a mask if you feel under the weather can be helpful tools to protect the immune system. And most importantly, listening to your body and taking rest days when needed.