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Should You Run When You Are Sick ?

© Lynn Seely

With Fall just around the corner, the cold and flu season can't be far away. Now to be truthful, I haven't had the flu in a long, long time. But if I did, I doubt that I'd be out running.

What about other conditions?

Well, that all depends on how sick you are. Some people say "sweat it out, continue running and you will get well faster." Others tell you, "you'd better not run. You should go home and get into bed." So what is a person to do when you are ill? Stay home and rest or go out and run?

Actually, using your own common sense is usually better than seeking someone else's advice. For example, if you just have a minor cold or nasal congestion, an easy run at a slow pace will often help you feel better and boost your immune system as well. With the flu or a virus, however, the accompanying fever, headache, sore throat and overall weakness would probably indicate it would be best to not exercise for a few days. Just use common sense.

Dr. Jack Scaff has developed a 20-minute test that you can use on yourself. As a cardiologist and the founder of the Honolulu Marathon Clinic, he is considered an expert on the care and treatment of runners.

His 20-minute test consists of doing a 20-minute run at a very slow pace. If, after 20 minutes, you are feeling better, you are probably over the worst of the illness and can continue training. If, however, after 20 minutes you feel worse, you are still sick and it is time to go home.

This is a very simple way to determine how your body is handling the illness and if running will help or hinder your recovery. This common sense approach is one I recommend. But ultimately, it is really your call, isn't it?

One word of caution. If you feel better, but are still taking medication, use extreme caution when running. The medicine may mask your true condition and could cause other serious health problems.If you are taking medication, it would be best to consult your health care professional before heading out the door.

Fall is a beautiful time of the year to be outside and enjoying all the spectacular variety of color that nature displays. Run safe! Treasure what you are able to enjoy in this life.

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