Discussion Board

I came down with a cold on Friday. Stayed home in the a.m. and got some extra sleep. Felt better and went into the office in the afternoon. Because I felt so bad in the morning, I didn't spin.

Feeling much better today - in fact almost normal - but it's only the 3rd day. I should be getting ready for my spin class, but I don't want to over do it. I think I'm going to skip it and take a good walk later today. But I'm second guessing myself. Some kind of movement seems like a good idea, and the walk seems the most sensible. But I'm tempted to try to hit the spin studio too.

How do you keep up your fitness routine when you are a just a little bit under the weather, but not sick as a dog? How far do you push it?

Mild exercise can stimulate the immune system, so if you feel up for it go for a walk when you have a cold. Just dont overdo it.

Thanks, Diane and Adrienne. You confirmed my thoughts on the subject.

I was torn between liking the exercise and liking sitting in my robe and reading the Sunday paper. Anyway, I was having trouble trusting which made the most sense.

I followed my initial inclination and took it easy. Feel pretty good right now. Hope to get back to normal tomorrow.

Thanks again.

I always take it easy when I think I might be sick with a cold or virus. I figure that if my immune system is busy fighting something off, vigorous exercise will just stress it further. Might as well let it do its job.

I was told this way back when:

When you're sick..

-) from the neck up...exercise,
-) from the neck down...don't.

If I'm stuffy, moving always makes me feel better...I think it's because I drink so much water when I exercise, I probably wouldn't be drinking water if I was @ home on the couch. And everyone knows you need more H2O when you're not 100%.

Works every time.

yes i do.i won't exercise if i have the flu-diarrhea,vomitting,fever and body achiness.

When I trained at a high level, with a cold I would do the same workout but at about 2/3 the effort and only for 1/2 the scheduled time.

Another approach, especially for something a little more serious, would be to fast and go to bed early. That could be a good response in case of a fever.

Has anyone seen any science papers or articles on this topic? My Doctor told me moderate exercise is good for illnesses.