Many symptoms can be associated with the common cold such as a runny nose and nasal congestion, coughing, sneezing, headache, sore throat and muscle aches. Most cold symptoms go away in a few days and are not serious. No medical indication exists that exercise worsens a cold. You can exercise with a cold as long as you follow a few guidelines.
No Worsening Symptoms or Illness
Exercising with a cold doesn't negatively affect performance as it could if the illness gradually worsens, according to two small studies published a decade ago in "Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise," which were referred to by the New York Times. During one of the studies, symptoms of a cold in study subjects remained the same between those who exercised and those who rested. In addition, exercise had no effect on recovery time.
Exercise During Illness
When it comes to exercising with a cold, let your body guide you. If you are miserable, skip exercise or lower your workout intensity. Mild to moderate exercise is usually permissible if you have a common cold with no fever, but follow the above and below neck guidelines, indicates Edward R. Laskowski, M.D. of MayoClinic.com. If your symptoms are above the neck like nasal congestion and a runny nose, sneezing and a minor sore throat, exercise is usually fine. Don't exercise if you have symptoms below the neck such as chest congestion or an upset stomach. Dr. Laskowski also cautions you to avoid exercise if you have a fever or all-over muscle aches.
Spreading Germs
Even though you might feel well enough to exercise when you have a cold, keep in mind that you can deposit germs on gym equipment or into the environment through coughing, sneezing and from those lingering on your hands after blowing your nose. Wipe down all equipment that you touch and cough or sneeze into the inside of your forearm or elbow instead of your hands. Wash your hands as often as possible and carry a bottle of hand sanitizer with you to reduce the spread of germs.
Secondary Health Problems
Colds can trigger symptoms of asthma, according to MedlinePlus. A cold can also lead to ear infections, bronchitis and pneumonia. Get plenty of rest, especially if you are prone to developing other illnesses and complications with a common cold.
