Should I work Out when I'm sick

[buddhabar]

Hello to all. This is a question I've been wondering ever since I started working out. I've heard mixed response's on this Topic. Should I work out when I'm sick? Thanks for everybodys help...

 

[Johnny]

No, you will lower your immune system and deplete resources you body needs to recover. You most likely will get worse, depending on how light your workout is. Don't workout sick, injured or sore and you will lead a happy life.

 

[freddy1]

i would say it depends...if you've just got a mild cold, then there shouldnt be any big problem in the gym. but if you've got a fever or something, you want to avoid activity. remember that you dont build muscle in the gym, but you build it when you rest, after tearing down your muscles in the gym. you dont want to tear them down when your body is too busy repairing other things.

 

[Adler1983]

I agree that working can lower your ability to devote resources to healing; however; call me compulsive, but unless I'm falling down, passing out, near dementia sick...I go.

I find that exercise can clear my sinuses when they're clogged, and a good steam aftewards will really help any cough you may have.

But I absolutely agree that if you're sick, you're best bet is to stay in and rest. If you're compulsive about it like I am, you could probably manage a light workout without doing too much harm.

 

[Johnny]

You can manage by all means, but you are just wasting time because you won't get a very good workout and you increase recovery time for muscles as well as the illness. Trust me, in the military we had many a day where we trained sick and tired and never benefited from it other than the realization that you can overcome (intestinal fortitude). For the average civilian, there is no need for this b/c they are not training for that.
If you think you are hardcore b/c you train sick, you’re NOT.... you’re stupid. Now a sissy little sniffle is not what I'm talking about, but if you are a little sore and tired, forget it.

 

[B.N.F.]

An exception that I make - I always train when I feel a migraine coming. Normally, by the end of the session, the symptoms have lessened and sometimes even completely retreated.