It can be hard to force yourself to hit the gym when you’re sniffling, sneezing and in overall discomfort during the course of a cold or the flu.
But, in some cases, the gym may be just as helpful as any over-the-counter medication.
READ: Ready To Get Rid Of Your Cold? Explore Your Options
According to experts, it is safe to workout while battling cold symptoms if those symptoms are above the neck. That includes sneezing, congestion and sinus pressure. Breaking a sweat may help open your nasal passage and relieve any nasal congestion you may be experiencing.
If the symptoms are below the neck, however, stay home until you’re feeling better. Those symptoms include chest congestion, hacking coughs and upset stomach. And if you’re experiencing other flu-like symptoms, like a fever, nausea or vomiting, you shouldn’t exercise.
READ: This Strange Home Remedy For Cold & Flu Actually Works
Here are a few exercises to consider if you’re experiencing cold and fly symptoms:
Walking
A 20-minute walk is not so intense that it’ll make you feel worse afterwards, but it is intense enough to relieve nasal congestion and benefit as physical fitness.
READ: How To Tell If It’s A Cold, Flu Or Pneumonia
Jogging/Running
Some physicians say running naturally clears your head and nasal passage when experiencing congestion. However, they suggest running a little slower than normal just because your body may be weak from fighting off the cold or flu.
READ: Is Your Cold Medicine Safe For High Blood Pressure
Yoga
Any yogi (a person who regularly practices yoga) will tell you how relaxing and soothing this yoga can be. As for cold symptoms, the various positions in yoga could help relieve aches through stretching. Also, many yoga poses include breathing exercises that may help relieve stress and open the nasal passage.
Qi Gong
A mix of meditation and martial arts, this Chinese practice is low-intensity but known for its ability to reduce stress, improve blood flow and increase energy. Some experts say Qi Gong can boost immunity, as well.
READ: 15 Foods To Fight The Common Cold
Dancing
Any Zumba or dance class for about 20 to 50 minutes can allow you to break a sweat without putting too much stress on your body. In these classes, you can move at your own pace and scale back if necessary depending on how you feel.
At the end of the day, you can only do what your body allows. Let your body guide you – meaning, take breaks if you’re feeling weak. Exercising at your regular level of intensity while sick can make matters worse.
If you’re unsure of whether you should be exercising, check with your doctor before continuing any workouts.
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