Exercising does good to your heart, mind and body, but is not always the best thing to do. There are times when resting your body is better than a workout-induced endorphin high. Read on to find out when it’s best to avoid exercise.
Fever: Fever is a sign that you’re body is fighting infection. At such a time, exercising will only put more strain on your immune system.
Cold: Mayo Clinic says, “Mild to moderate physical activity is usually OK, if you have a common cold and no fever.” So if a cold is all you have, take a walk or do some light yoga, but nothing intense. Also, take care to not spread your germs to your gym/exercise buddies.
Headache: In case of a headache, avoid high-impact exercise like running. Anything that makes you sweat too much can leave you dehydrated, aggravating your headache. If you do want to exercise, try some yoga or go for a walk.
The flu: A flu brings with it a fever. Your immune system functions best when its not in overdrive. So if you’re down with the flu, ditch exercising until you recover.
An asthma attack: If you’ve had an asthma attack recently, consult your doctor before you resume your exercise. Strenuous physical activity can trigger another attack, so it’s best to avoid exercising until you fully recover.
Back pain: It would be wise to take a break for a few days to aid healing. If the back continues to hurt for more than a few days, visit the doctor.
Sore muscles: This is mostly for the newcomer, but sometimes even workout veterans can have an abnormal soreness. In this case, choose a low to moderate-intensity workout like walking. If your muscles are too sore, then just skip your workout for the day.
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Return of an old sports injury: DO NOT exercise, if your old sport injury is beginning to hurt again. Go see your doctor immediately.
Pregnancy: Most women benefit from exercising during pregnancy, but you will need to make a few adjustments to your normal routine. Avoid high-intensity workouts. Replace it with the likes of yoga, swimming and walking. Always consult your doctor and/or your gynaecologist before choosing an exercise routine.
Have a hangover: Working out is no hangover cure. Alcohol dehydrates you, which is what causes the nausea and headaches. And exercise, will cause you to sweat, and dehydrate you further. So DO NOT exercise when you’re hungover.
Instead give your body some rest, stock up on fluids and light food. When you’re feeling better do some light stretches or yoga, if you feel like.
