Thursday, January 17, 2013

Neck up or neck down?

Last week I posted information about how to avoid the flu.  Hopefully, you will avoid the flu but may not be able to avoid the cold germs swarming your head this time of year.

If you do feel ill is it appropriate to continue your exercise routine?


The American College of Sports Medicine has published a position paper which you can read for more detail.  http://www.acsm.org/docs/current-comments/exerciseandcommoncold.pdf 

I like the simplicity of their "neck up" decision making advice.  If you're sick from the neck up (minus a fever) than it's probably ok to exercise and may even be beneficial.  A couple of reputable web sites I read suggest a regenerative exercise like pilates might make you feel better.  

If your symptoms are from the neck down it's probably better to stick with bed rest and a gradual resumption of your intensive training regime. 

So, don't avoid Urbancore classes if you're feeling ill from the neck up.  Just remember to wipe down your equipment afterwards!! 



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