Exercise is important for maintaining optimal health. However, exercise when you have a cold may worsen certain symptoms. When you work out, your lungs are required to increase their oxygen intake to fuel your cells, which is difficult if you have a chest cold. In addition, exercise can worsen chest cold symptoms. Talk to your doctor about your symptoms, particularly if your lungs are affected, before trying to exercise.
Congestion
Chest colds typically involve deep coughing and labored breathing, also known as "chest congestion." Congestion is defined as a lack of movement. In the case of chest congestion, phlegm or mucus builds up in spaces surrounding your airways, which can include the nose, sinuses and lungs, leading to a tightness or heavy feeling in your chest. Symptoms like fever, chest pain, coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath are commonly associated with chest congestion.
Exercise Effects
When you exercise, your body is performing its functions at a higher capacity; your muscles, bones and organs are forced to adapt to new circumstances. This adaptation helps you improve your strength and endurance. Including regular exercise in your lifestyle can boost your immune system and help prevent colds and other illnesses. However, some types of exercise -- such as intense aerobic activities -- can actually be stressful on the body. Such exercises can overstress your body, potentially worsening symptoms if you are sick.
Exercise and Chest Colds
Although exercise is not harmful if you have a runny nose or nasal congestion, Mayoclinic.com recommends avoiding exercise if your illness involves symptoms below the neck. If you have chest congestion, body aches, a deep cough, diarrhea or an upset stomach, exercise may worsen your symptoms.
Body Temperature
If you have a fever, avoid exercise regardless of the location of your symptoms. Allow the fever and the illness to run its course, beginning light exercise only after symptoms have subsided and gradually increasing workout intensity. Pushing yourself too soon can weaken your immune system and potentially lead to a relapse in symptoms. Avoid working out in extreme temperatures, such as freezing or hot conditions. Your body experiences extra stress regulating its temperature in these conditions, which can set back your recovery.
Recovery
Because illness is stressful on your body, allow yourself time to heal. Listen to your body; if you are overly fatigued, rest instead of pushing yourself to exercise or complete tasks. If your illness includes chest congestion, relaxation exercises that encourage breathing -- like qigong or tai chi -- may be beneficial. Light stretching may also keep muscle aches at bay and increase circulation.
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