None of us needs another excuse not to exercise. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Minority Health, Blacks are 50% less likely to engage in physical activity than their white counterparts. But sometimes, there are some valid reasons to sit out a fitness session or two.
“The key is to be able to listen to your body and the cues it is giving you and decide if exercise is right at that time,” says Katie Rothstein, MS, a Cleveland Clinic exercise physiologist.
Before you decide to forego the gym for the couch, check your excuse against some expert advice.
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“I’m sick.”
If you have a fever, your body’s immune system is working hard to get rid of infection and the stress of exercise can be too much.
When you have a fever your body fluids decrease and it’s probably best to stay home, rest and drink plenty of fluids.
While the flu warrants skipping workouts, a cold does not.
Experts say moderate-intensity workouts such as biking, walking briskly on a treadmill, and basketball cannot hurt when you are dealing with a common cold. Use hand sanitizer often and wipe down the equipment you use to prevent spreading your cold to other gym-goers.
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“I’ve got asthma.”
The good news is asthma is controllable. If you have recently had a flare-up due to a respiratory infection, talk to your doctor to find out when it is okay to resume working out. Otherwise, grab your doctor-prescribed inhaler and engage in
