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Is it a bad idea to work out when you're sick?

asked about 2 years ago | Report

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  • someone told me once that if you feel bad ABOVE the neck (runny nose, etc.), you can still run, but if you feel bad BELOW the neck (lungs, tummy, etc.), maybe you should take it easy and avoid the run.

    Haven't completely tested that but my runny nose ofter goes away during a run - yippee.

    answered about 2 years ago |Report

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  • Yeah, as Jason said- it's best to rest if you're coughing or have a stomachache or any respiratory issues. But if it's a little cold then there's no big issue. Just take it slow and don't push too hard.

    answered about 2 years ago |Report

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  • Hey Cristina, I believe working out will help you. I find that when I am stress at work which is happening a lot these days(hospital setting and adminstration) working out helps me at the end of the day or before the day begans. I have been really stress at work, along with the back pain and not able to workout my stress like I would want, so I have resort to reading books and trying to keep my mind off of work and the stressors. I hope you find work soon, it is just so funny the things work, I have a job which I can not stand at this time but then I hear/know friends/family like you who don't have one and wish they could find one so that keeps me going and being blessed that I do have one and just makes me focus more on finding something better to make me happy and stress free because that is what I need know in order to get better. I believe the stress is not helping my back injury get any better, believe it is making it worst. Keep the faith----things will get better believe in higher power.

    answered about 2 years ago |Report

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  • Cristina, I workout whenever I have a cold or stomach cramps and it always help! I always feel much better afterward. Trying walking some of that stress off and get plenty of outdoor fresh air. A brush of fresh air is good for the mind and body especially when stressed.

    answered about 2 years ago |Report

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  • If it is nerves than working out might help. If you think youre coming down with something...eat well and rest...feel better!

    answered about 2 years ago |Report

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  • I almost always run if it is only a cold. Not always the most pleasent runs, but at least I can work out without infecting anyone.

    answered about 2 years ago |Report

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  • Thank you for sharing this thread with me Cristina! I'm going to keep trying to run and hope the stomach cramps stay away... Almost get nervous thinking they're going to come back when I'm 5-10 miles away from home, which probably doesn't help the matter!

    answered about 2 years ago |Report

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  • P.S. The stress of job loss or job insecurity is so difficult. I know how you feel, and truly hope you find a job you love very soon. Be grateful for the time you have to focus on your health now.

    answered about 2 years ago |Report

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  • I've always gone by the "above the shoulders: run, below the shoulders: don't run" rule. A cold has never stopped me from getting in a great workout. However, I think this rule applies to legitimate illnesses - running always makes me feel better when I'm cramping, stressed or nervous. If you think your ailment is from stress, the best thing you can do is work out, but if you think you've got a bug, take it easy and I hope you feel better soon!

    answered about 2 years ago |Report

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  • Depends on how sick. If it is stress exercise makes me feel better by generating endorphins. Maybe something like yoga and not too strenuous.

    answered about 2 years ago |Report

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  • Like everybody says 'Depends how sick you are'. If you're not too sick, you can get loose, start your work out and see how it goes. Let your body tell you how hard to go. There is some value in keeping to your routine. Get better soon. Chris Kelley - Framingham

    answered about 2 years ago |Report

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