Move Your Body

Exercise and being physically active are crucial when it comes to staying healthy and preventing chronic illness.  Regular exercise allows you to improve your overall fitness, which can help to boost your immune system — the body’s defense against infections.

Here are some helpful tips from Mayo Clinic if you develop a cold or fever this winter and you’re unsure if exercising will help or make your illness worse.  Mild to moderate physical activity is usually OK if you have a cold but no fever.  Exercise may even help you feel better by temporarily relieving nasal congestion.

As a rule of thumb for exercise and illness:

* Proceed with your workout if your signs and symptoms are “above the neck” — such as runny nose, nasal congestion, sneezing or sore throat.  However, be prepared to reduce the intensity of your workout if needed.

* Postpone your workout if your signs and symptoms are “below the neck” — such as chest congestion, hacking cough or upset stomach.  Likewise, don’t exercise if you have a fever, fatigue or widespread muscle aches.

Most importantly, if you choose to exercise when you’re sick, listen to your body.  If your signs and symptoms get worse with physical activity, stop and rest.  Resume your workout routine gradually as you begin to feel better.