Generally speaking, runny nose and congestion don't need to put you on the sidelines. However, you need to make sure that you don’t have other symptoms. This means that if you have symptoms “below the neck,” working out is a no-go.
The below-the-neck rule is also important when it comes to chest congestion, which can it tough to breathe and even more difficult for the body to take in air while working out. Plus, it may signal pneumonia, which can be dangerous.
So if you do have symptoms below the neck, give your body time to recover. And see a doctor to rule out pneumonia in general.
Many of us have been told to “sweat it out” when we have a fever. However, this may not be the best advice.
This rule of thumb is especially true when fevers reach high numbers. "The danger is exercising and raising your body temperature internally if you already have a fever because that can make you even sicker," Dr. Lewis G. Maharam, a New York City-based sports medicine expert, tells WebMD.
Maharam says to call it quits if your fever rises past 101 degrees Fahrenheit. And if you’re too achy and stiff to feel productive, give your workout the boot and stay in bed.
News Flash: Days when you’re sick are not the time to check out the new CrossFit gym down the street. These are days to take it easy and be happy with simply moving your body.