This week’s Tuesday Topic is: Do you run when you’re sick? You can write about this topic or feel free to post any running related blog post. Remember to link up with Kim and Zenaida! Visit at least two of the other linked posts – the more the merrier! Remember to come back for later linkers!
Today is day #291 of my run streak. I’ve run in cold, freezing, humid, and hot weather. I’ve run in the snow and in the rain. What will actually make me NOT run? It will either be an injury or being sick. But exactly how sick will I need to be? Let’s find out.
Let me start by saying that I rarely get sick. I guess working 12 years with students has paid off. 😀 When I do get sick, I get a cold that lasts 3-4 days and it usually happens 1-2 times a year. The last time (that I can remember) I got a cold was in January 2020.
To run or not to run?
I’ve worked with several coaches and they’ve told me that if my symptoms are above the neck (sneezing, runny nose, etc) then it is OK to run as long as you feel good. However, if they’re in or below the neck (sore throat, diarrhea, body aches, chills, etc), then skip the run. For the former, it should also be a personal choice. If you want to skip it then go ahead. Nothing wrong with taking a rest day. If you do run, keep it easy or run fewer miles than what is on the plan.
If you have a fever, then you should not run at all. Running will raise the body’s core temperature and in return could increase the risk of dehydration or delay recovery time. One or two rest days to bring the fever down is better than days or weeks that you may need to take off if the situation gets worse.
The last time I felt sick enough to skip a run was the day after I received my 2nd vaccine. I ran in the morning and then used the Peloton bike. It was later in the morning when I had chills and my whole body ached. I was working from home (thank goodness!) and somehow made it through the work day. No way could I run after school and am glad I ran that morning. See, another reason why I don’t like to procrastinate! I did feel much better in the evening and ran again the next morning.
Congratulations on your running streak, Zenaida! 291 days is awesome. Is this the longest streak you’ve ever done?
Great advice with the “above the neck” rule.
Luckily, I haven’t been sick for many years. The only thing I get is hay fever and allergies, but that’s no big deal.
Thanks, Catrina! Yes, this is the longest streak. Hoping to make it at least a year.
I almost always try to run when i’m feeling down and out–a lot of times, I find that I’m not as sick as I thought. Fortunately, i don’t get sick too often. Like you, working with children all these years has definitely toughened up my immune system!
That does happen! Or running just makes it better. Right?
You may remember the Covid vax came pretty close to wiping me out (both doses), and the hubby as well. The only other time (in recent times, that is) I’ve felt equally as bad was from the Shingles vax (both of those doses also). Why do preventative meds have to be so tough LOL? That said, I haven not had a fever in years…
Last year I got the flu vaccine and had no reaction. And I was ready for any side effects! But this one was more powerful but glad the effects did not last too long.
I’m like you. I don’t get sick. I think it’s because I was a teacher for so many years.
The thing is unless it’s a stomach thing just get out and do it. You’ll be surprised that you may feel better. You will not die.
Haha, “you will not die”! Too funny. I love the meme.
Sounds like we both have heard the same information about running while sick. If I had a fever or chills I know I wouldn’t be able to run because I wouldn’t have any energy at all.
That is true! I’ve had some days where I’ve had no energy simply from being exhausted.
I definitely think you shouldn’t run with a fever. I rarely get colds, but for whatever reason, I am more prone to fevers. On top of feeling crappy, I can’t eat when I have a fever. So no running for me when that happens!
Whenever I get a fever I get cold and my whole body aches. Definitely not a good combo for running. I take a Tylenol or some other medication and take a nap.
Like you I rarely get sick (touch wood!) but when I do, I take full advantage, feeling sorry for myself! So even though I could probably run, I prefer to take it easy!
Nothing wrong with taking it easy nor feeling sorry for yourself!
I don’t get sick very often, so I also don’t feel bad that if feel poorly, I take a break from hard workouts (I usually get a stretching/yoga session in on those days).
That is a good idea!
Ah, it’s good you got your run in before that second shot- it would be a shame if getting the vax wrecked your streak! I follow the same guidelines as you, but also haven’t been sick in a long time.
I know, right? I do wonder if I would have gone out after I woke up from my nap. I did feel better but not 100%. Oh, and I would have probably walked 1 mile.