Everyone knows that regular physical activity contributes to a healthy lifestyle. Regular exercise can lower your risk of certain chronic diseases like heart disease and diabetes. But, during these strange COVID-times, you might be feeling under the weather and wondering if you should push through and continue working out.
Mild physical activity is probably fine if you have a common cold and no fever. It might even help you feel better by clearing nasal passageways and relieving congestion. But sometimes you need to stop working out in order to give your body a chance to rest and recover.
Some tips to keep moving (if that feels right) while you’re not feeling well:
- Consider reducing the intensity of your workout. If you typically run every day, consider walking for a little while until your body bounces back.
- Be honest with yourself. Will this workout make you feel better or worse? If the answer is ‘better,’ then have at it! If the answer is ‘worse,’ then skip it.
- Go easy on yourself. If you’re not feeling well, you’re not going to be able to maintain your normal workout intensity. If you push too hard you might end up hurting yourself or feeling worse.
It’s okay to take a break when you’re not feeling well. The gym isn’t going anywhere, and you’ll return to normal faster if you give yourself a chance to recover from whatever bug has you down.
Bottom line: listen to your body.
If your body says rest, then rest. If you’re not sure, ask your doctor. Proper hydration and a nutritious diet can help you feel like you’re getting back to normal faster. Ease back into your routine when you’re feeling better and when you’re not at risk of infecting others.
Take care of yourselves,
Eximo Staff
