Over Christmas {and the 2 weeks following it} I got the big C. The four letter word I haven’t used in years. That’s right, a cold.
I was snotting and stuffy and an all around bundle of fun. The one thing I wasn’t doing? Coughing. That ‘s usually how I figure out whether its time for a break from the gym or not. But this time, since I was pregnant, I laid low and took time to just rest.
My unofficial guideline for exercising while sick or taking it easy? If its above the head go for it. If its below the head, take a rest. It’s no fun exercising when your lungs are congested anyways, but it could also keep you sick longer.
Even if it is just in your head, sometimes rest is just what you need- your body needs the energy to heal and rejuvenate. Missing a couple of days won’t derail your workout plan.
Here are a few tips to help you make the decision:
- Fever? Opt for the couch, not the treadmill
- Coughing/cheat congestion? Take a breather-let it clear up before pounding the pavement.
- Body aches? Don’t add to the pain, add a rest day.
- Sniffles? Your call, but its probably ok to continue on as you normally would
- Can’t decide? Try taking your workout down a notch.
Tips for feeling better faster:
- Your mom was right about chicken soup. Only it doesn’t have to be chicken and it doesn’t have to be soup- just be sure to take in plenty of fluids!
- If your throat hurts try tea or a mug of hot water with lemon and honey.
- To help ease congestion try a hot shower with a tab that releases menthol when wet. Deep breaths! {<–my favorite!}
- Cough drops, zinc lozenges, and cold meds are always an option to help relieve symptoms as well, although meds aren’t usually my first option.
How do you decide whether a rest day is in order when you’re sick? What are your favorite ways to ease cold symptoms?
Disclosure: Compensation was provided by HALLS via Glam Media. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not indicative of the opinions or positions ofHALLS.
HALLS Warm-Ups are unique soothing drops that are warm and cool in one. Menthol vapors cool nasal passages while the warming sensation gently warms and soothes throats. Available in two delicious flavors: Apple Cider & Mocha Mint.
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I try to listen to my body as much as possible – if I’m sick, I don’t want to further stress my body with a workout. Sometimes, though, I’ll go for a walk outside – fresh air is good for you and it’s more socially acceptable to be hacking and coughing when you’re outdoors as opposed to on a treadmill (p.s. I’ve got a HUGE pet peeve for people who cough and sneeze at the gym!!)
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