Should you exercise when your sick?

Should you exercise when you’re sick? Should you “sweat it out” or rest and recover? Everyone gets sick, but what should we do about it?

So should you exercise while you’re sick? Let’s get one thing straight from the beginning: there’s a difference between “working out” and “moving the body.” A structured workout routine (one where you’re breathing heavily, sweating, working hard and feel a bit of discomfort) awakens a stress response in the body. When we are healthy, our bodies can easily handle the stress. Over time, this progressive adaption is precisely what makes us fitter and stronger. But, when we’re sick, the stress of a tough workout can be more than our immune systems can handle. However, there is no reason to jump onto the couch when you begin to feel sick. Non-strenuous movement might help you recover. Some examples of non-strenuous movement include: talking a walk outdoors, going for a low intensity bike ride, gardening or practicing Tai Chi. In fact, these activities have been shown to boost immunity.

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