February 19, 2016

If you’re anything like me, you wanted to celebrate the end of winter early. With spring so close, I forgot to take into account what the next few weeks are bound to bring: sickness.

We are literally so close to being outside of the nasty and icky flu season, but we’re not out of the woods yet and chances are the flu bug may give one last attempt to bite you. I got bit myself after bragging to my friends that I hadn’t been sick all season. Karma is a bitch.

Well, if you are in the same unfortunate boat as me, here are five things you need to know about working out when you’re sick.

Rule # 1, Nobody wants what you’ve got

If you are contagious, if you are seriously ill, if you can’t stand for more than 10 minutes without falling over, then stay the hell away from everyone else. For our benefit, and yours, if you’re immune system is seriously weakened, catch some Z’s.

Rule # 2, If you have a fever, the gym is a no-go

What are you thinking? You’re probably contagious. Check in with your doctor to see if you are.

Rule # 3, The Neck Check

If your symptoms are above the neck (sneezing, coughing, sore throat, runny nose) then you’re probably in the clear, as long you use sanitizer and wash your hands.

However, if your symptoms are below the neck (hello stomach bug), that’s a no-go zone for strenuous workouts. I think the reasons are obvious on this one, unless you want your “can’t leave the bathroom” moment to come at a fitness facility.

Rule # 4, Low- to mid-intensity workouts are good for you

Assuming you’re not halfway caught up with a norovirus and entirely out of commission, some form of exercise is actually really good for you. A workout that boosts your immune system without stressing it out from a strenuous bout of movement can help you get better, faster. Take it easy for a couple of days.

Rule # 5, Nobody wants what you’ve got, seriously

Oh? Did I already say this one? Well I meant to, because seriously nobody wants your sickness, so be considerate of your fellow gym goers. And you don’t want to prolong the illness either, think of yourself. Just don’t be an ass and you’ll have successfully followed the rules to working out when you’re sick.

By Elizabeth Bergren