When I hear people in the gym who are sick, or when I hear people with bad colds or the flu talk about having worked out at the gym, I am reminded that they violate one of the most important rules of Gym etiquette: DON’T TRAIN FOR HEALTH OR A SPEEDY RECOVERY. I don’t want you transmitting that stuff to everyone else in the gym.
Fever is a limiting factor. When you exercise, you body temperature raises internally. If you have a fever while exercising, the increased body temperature will make you even sicker.
In addition, how frequently you train is important. Depending on the type of illness, continuing to train while sick may lengthen the recovery time. This delay in getting well ultimately reduces training frequency. Why add to the body’s stress by training when sick? Most of us could stand to take some time off anyway, so enjoy the down time. Make use of rest by learning something new.. Look at some of the blogs and videos I’ve posted on my webpage, and see what you’re doing right or wrong.
If you are really sick (flu) return to training gradually. By slowing getting started, you will avoid injuries and avoid shocking your body. If you have mucus in your lungs, it will limit top-end performance. Illness or lack of exercise or movement will cause stiffness. You have to have a long term perspective, and realize that there is not a need to get right back into full speed. It is best and safest to return step-by-step.
The one rule I recommend you follow to remain safe and sane, listen to your body and let it tell you what it needs. Also, remember that you don’t want to be that person who got everyone at the gym sick.
I enjoy receiving feedback on these blogs, so let me know what you think. Also, if you have questions, as always, please ask. You can reach me at pat@patsgym.com
