Should I Work Out When I'm Sick?

Flu season is here and we all want to maintain our Health and Fitness goals. It is always important to listen to your body and only push when you have adequate energy levels. Remember muscles have amazing memories and cardio can always be regained. Below I have outlined simple rules to follow for when it is appropriate to continue hitting the gym or your favourite workout classes and when it is not.
The Golden Rule:

ABOVE THE NECK: YES
BELOW THE NECK: NO

Lets go into a little more depth with this Golden Rule.

Above the neck: (YES)

• Typically symptoms you get with the common cold - runny nose, nasal congestion, sneezing or minor sore throat.
  
• It is alway advised that you lower the intensity or time of your regular routine and alway listen to your body! If you're feeling weaker slow it down and perhaps stick to a shortened cardio session or lighter weights for your strength.
• Never go for a run or a walk in the rain when you're feeling sick (duh!)

Below the neck: (NO)

• Typically symptoms you get with the flu such as chest congestion, hacking cough or upset stomach.
• Never exercise if you have a fever, feelings of fatigue or widespread muscle aches. This is your body telling you to slow it down, put on some NetFlixs and relax! 

Remember that as important as your health and fitness goals are you wont ever achieve them if you push too hard and ignore your body's reaction. You only live once and you only have one body so treat it well :)

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