Should you train if you have a cold

This article will give you a definitive idea as to whether you should continue to train and go to the gym if you have a cold.

Many people are uncertain as to whether they should carry on with their weight training or weight loss routine if they have a cold. Everyone is different and what may be a yes for one person may not necessarily apply to another. However if you are aware of certain guidelines and principles, you can then make an informed decision.

A cold is usually your body's way of telling you that you are over doing it. You may ask, what if I have just caught it from someone else? That doesn't mean you are overdoing it - right? Wrong! If you have caught a cold whether it is from someone else or just by not wearing enough clothing, your body's immune system would have been weak and therefore not at its best.

The body's immune system can go down as a result of a number of factors. Most common factors are:

1. Excess stress
2. Not eating enough
3. Not sleeping enough
4. Working too hard

There are of course lots of other factors that contribute to a cold. The above are some general ones. Notice that "working too hard" can apply to going to the gym also.

To get over a cold you need to do the opposite of the above so:

1. Reduce stress
2. Eat more healthy and varied foods
3. Sleep more
4. Work less - or train less

If you address the first 3 above, then chances are you "may" get over your cold. In which case you can carry on with your training. However a much wiser method would be to combat a cold by addressing all 4 general points above to get over the cold fast. So this means working a little less i.e. employment and gym work.

Ultimately you are the moderator of your own life and only you can decide things. As a general rule, if you do have a cold, you should stay away from the gym and concentrate on recovering fast so your workouts can be super effective. Don't forget, going to the gym when you are ill is also not considerate to other gym users.

A cold is your body's way of saying you are over doing it. It is your body's way of forcing you to slow down. Listen to your body.