Personal Trainer NYC | Free Fitness Blogs

First of all, common sense should come into play when deciding to run or not. Sometimes we feel ill but not so bad that we don’t want to carry on with our workout schedule. So, should you run when you feel sick? Firstly, if your illness is above your throat area then you can generally run OK. If it is in your chest area then you shouldn’t run. Specific things to help include:

1. If you felt like going to work or school or going about your normal every day chores
If you woke up this morning and felt OK to go to the office or to school even though you feel bad then running shouldn’t be a problem. If you stayed at home or don’t feel up to doing your normal chores then don’t run. So, if you can’t carry on as normal because you feel ill then give up running and get some rest until you feel better!

2. If you have a fever
If you wake up with, or develop a fever then don’t run. Running will NOT help you sweat it out! If your body can’t control your temperature at rest in the house then it sure won’t be able to cope on a run and you’ll end up feeling worse.

3. If you have trouble breathing
If you’re having difficulty breathing then running is a definite NO! Your breathing and chest congestion will get worse if you run and even if fresh air clears a stuffy nose it’ll just feel bad. Your muscles need air to work right – if you can’t breathe it in, then you’ll just feel worse.

4. If you feel nauseous or have stomach problems
If you have stomach problems or feel nauseous then running is a bad idea. Just moving will make you feel worse never mind running! Bear in mind that these symptoms could point to a more serious issue so take it easy.

5. If you feel light headed or dizzy
>If you feel a little dizzy or light-headed then avoid running (or moving much at all!) Your body is telling you that movement is bad so listen to it.

6. Get real with yourself… Should I run?
If your doctor has advised you against running while you’re sick then take the advice. If they told you you’ll be OK to run then go ahead. But, if you feel worse when you run then stop and go home. You’ll just feel worse if you push yourself too hard.
So remember, use your common sense and let your body tell you what’s right and what’s not!