When you're sniffling and coughing all day long and your chest is tight with congestion, exercise may be the last thing on your mind. However, if you're trying to stick to a regular exercise routine, train for an athletic event or meet your weight-loss goals, you may be tempted to push through the pain and exercise. Examine your symptoms to determine whether to exercise or put your workout on hold.
Causes of Chest Congestion
Mucus in the chest can be caused by a respiratory infection and can affect your breathing. Other causes may include bronchitis, bronchiolitis, pneumonia, tuberculosis or even congestive heart failure. If you can't get relief from chest congestion, have difficulty breathing or your symptoms don't go away, see your doctor to determine the cause and find the right treatment.
When to Take a Break
If you have a simple cold that's confined to your head -- sneezing, stuffy or runny nose, and maybe a sore throat -- it's probably OK to exercise, according to MayoClinic.com. Take it easy and refrain from exercising as intensely as you normally do. If you suffer from a bad cough and have chest congestion, however, it's best to take a break from exercise to allow your body to recover. A fever and achy muscles are additional signs that your body is requesting a rest.
Hit the Road to Healing
To feel better and get back to exercising as quickly as you can, get plenty of sleep and don't push yourself. If you smoke, this is a great time to quit -- and be sure to steer clear of other smokers. Drink fluids and sip clear broths frequently to help break up chest congestion. Take any medications or breathing treatments as your doctor recommends.
Resuming Exercise
Once your chest congestion has improved and you feel better, gradually ease back into your exercise routine. You may not be able to exercise as vigorously or as long as you could before you got sick. Don't push yourself too hard and allow yourself breaks if you need them. Continue drinking plenty of fluids and pushing yourself a little harder each day as you recover.
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