Many people have an exercise routine. They exercise for a few minutes every day or every other day. So, getting those 150 minutes is easier. But what about those times when you are sick? If you do not feel well, should you keep following your exercise routine? Will physical activity help you to feel better more quickly or will it delay the healing process? Health experts answer these and other questions on the Mayo Clinic website. The Mayo Clinic is a nonprofit medical center in the United States. Edward R. Laskowski is a doctor at the clinic. He notes that “mild to moderate physical activity is usually OK if you have a common cold.” Dr. Laskowski and other experts have a general rule of thumb about exercising when you are sick. It is usually fine to exercise, he explains, if your symptoms are all "above the neck." These signs may include a runny nose, nasal congestion, sneezing or a minor sore throat.
What does rule of thumb mean?
medical center
common cold
general guideline
consider exercising
How much activity is OK when you are sick?
the usual amount
a short walk
sneezing and coughing
mild to moderate
It is fine to exercise when your symptoms are above the neck.
in your head
above the neck
a runny nose
a few minutes