How To Work Out Effectively While Sick
When you’re committed to a regular exercise routine, it can be tough to take a break when you’re feeling under the weather. After all, exercise is supposed to boost your immune system. But is working out while sick safe, or could it worsen things? Here’s what you need to know.
Listen to Your Body
First and foremost, listening to your body when you’re feeling sick is important. If you have a fever, cough, or other symptoms that make breathing hard, staying home and resting is best. Exercising can put additional stress on your body, making it harder to recover. Similarly, if you feel weak, fatigued, or dizzy, it’s a sign that your body needs rest, not exercise.
On the other hand, if your symptoms are mild and you feel up to it, exercising could help you feel better. Exercise can stimulate the production of endorphins, which are natural mood boosters, and improve circulation, which can help clear out toxins and other harmful substances from your body. Just be sure to start slowly and listen to your body throughout your workout.
Consider the Type and Intensity of Exercise
If you’ve decided you’re well enough to exercise while sick, the next question is what type and intensity of exercise is safe. Generally, low-impact exercises like yoga, stretching, and walking are safe options when feeling under the weather. These exercises can help improve circulation and boost your mood without putting too much stress on your body.
On the other hand, high-intensity exercises like weightlifting, running, and cycling can be more taxing on your body and may not be the best option when you’re feeling sick. These exercises can increase your heart rate and breathing, which can be challenging when you’re already struggling with symptoms like coughing or shortness of breath. Additionally, high-intensity exercises can stress your immune system, which is already working hard to fight off your illness.
Be Mindful of Others
If you do decide to exercise while sick, it’s important to be mindful of the other people around you. If you’re contagious, you could be putting others at risk by exercising in a public space like a gym or a park. Consider exercising at home, wearing a mask, and maintaining social distance from others if you exercise in a public space.
Additionally, be mindful of the equipment you’re using and the surfaces you’re touching. Use disinfectant wipes to clean equipment before and after use, and avoid touching your face during your workout. This can help reduce the spread of germs and keep others safe.
Stay Hydrated and Nourished
When you’re sick, it’s important to stay hydrated and nourished. This is especially true if you’re exercising, as your body will need additional fluids and nutrients to support your workout. Drink plenty of water before, during, and after your workout, and consider sipping on a sports drink or coconut water to replenish electrolytes.
Additionally, nourish your body with healthy foods like fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins. These foods can help boost your immune system and give your body the nutrients needed to recover from illness. Avoid sugary or processed foods, as these can suppress your immune system and make it harder for your body to fight infection.
More in Fitness
-
`
Does Coughing Work Your Abs? Here’s All You Ought to Know
When it comes to unexpected ways to engage your core, you might find yourself asking: Does coughing work your abs? The...
July 19, 2024 -
`
How to Prepare Rice Water for Weight Loss – Benefits and Uses
Rice water isn’t just a staple in traditional remedies—it’s a powerhouse of benefits for health and beauty. From treating diarrhea to...
July 12, 2024 -
`
Amanda Bynes Pregnant at 13? Debunking the Rumors
In recent years, the internet has been ablaze with rumors surrounding former child star Amanda Bynes, particularly regarding allegations of a...
July 1, 2024 -
`
Can Baking Soda Clean Your Lungs?
Years of inhaling cigarette smoke, pollution, and other toxins can leave you longing for a way to cleanse your lungs. The...
June 27, 2024 -
`
How to Build Muscle Mass After 60? 5 Proven Strategies
Curious about how to build muscle mass after 60? You are not alone. And the good news is that it is...
June 20, 2024 -
`
Prediabetic Foods That Can Lower Your Blood Sugar in 2024
Prediabetes is a health condition characterized by blood sugar levels that are higher than normal but not high enough to be...
June 13, 2024 -
`
Kelly Clarkson’s Weight Loss Journey | Here Are the Details
Kelly Clarkson’s weight loss has been a hot topic among fans and media alike. The iconic American singer and host of...
June 3, 2024 -
`
Essential Vitamins for Gut Health – A Comprehensive Guide
Our gut does more than just digest food – it plays a vital role in immunity, mood, and overall health. But...
May 30, 2024 -
`
Looking to Build A Stronger Sculpted Back? Try Cable Back Workouts
Back workouts using cables, or cable back workouts as they are commonly known, have become the gold standard for anyone aiming...
May 22, 2024
You must be logged in to post a comment Login