Working out when you're sick? Maybe

By Lisa Liddane
Knight Ridder News Service

You've seen them at the gym. The woman who coughs during a yoga class without covering her mouth. The man who holds dumbbells after wiping his nose with his bare hands.

With flu and cold season in full swing, it's nearly impossible to avoid germs unless your workouts are outdoors. Gyms and centers for yoga and Pilates are a Petri dish for viruses that cause the flu or cold.

Here are some answers to common questions about exercise, colds and flu:

Q. Is it OK to exercise if I'm starting to feel like I'm coming down with a cold or the flu?

A. First, pay attention to the symptoms and know the difference between cold and flu. Chances are, if you truly have the flu, you're probably feeling too sick to do anything but stay in bed and sleep. Symptoms of the flu: sudden headache, dry cough, a runny nose, sore throat, achy muscles, extreme fatigue or high fever. You may cough and continue to feel tired after the worst is over.

Symptoms of a cold: runny nose, sore throat and a cough. Adults usually don't have a fever.

Q. Should I go to the gym and work out if I have just a cold?

A. This is tricky. On one hand, if you feel well enough to exercise, there's no reason you shouldn't. But if you're coughing, sneezing and constantly wiping a runny nose, you are putting others at risk for catching your germs. What's more, your weakened immune system may make you more susceptible to other bugs that are thriving in the gym. Consider modifying your weight-training regimen so you can do it at home, and take your cardiovascular activity outdoors until symptoms are gone.

The bottom line: Do unto others what you would have them do unto you. If you have no choice but to go to a gym with a cold and a cough, don't cough into your hands or wipe a runny nose with your fingers. Wash your hands thoroughly and frequently with warm water and soap. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing.

Q. What can I do to stay healthy and avoid the flu/cold?

A. Drink lots of fluids, especially water. Get enough sleep. Maintain healthy eating habits. Wash your hands frequently. Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth, especially after holding door handles, gym equipment or other people's hands.