Q: I recently cancelled a workout date with a friend because I had a bad cold. She told me that was no excuse - there was no reason I couldn't exercise while I was sick. Can she possibly be right? How can it be okay to workout when you feel awful? - R.G., Allentown, PA

A: This is a tough subject to deal with. There has been a lot of research done on whether it is okay to workout with a cold or the flu. Findings show that as long as you do not have a fever, it is generally okay to workout. If you are running a fever you should rest and recover before working out. Obviously, if you are nauseous or suffering from intestinal problems, you will want to wait until you can be away from the bathroom for extended periods of time before exercising. In addition, many cold medications can make you drowsy, dizzy or slightly disoriented. Use caution when exercising while on medications. If your health care provider recommends a medication for your condition, be sure to ask about exercising while taking it.

Ultimately, though, you have to decide how sick you are. If you are coughing, sneezing and generally feeling rotten, you may want to wait a day or two until you feel better. (Others in your facility also will probably appreciate your staying away until you feel better; no one likes to be around sick people, especially when working out.) Listen to your body when you are sick. If you are tired, dehydrated and generally lacking energy, it is probably best to recuperate and build your strength back before working out. If you decide you can work out, be smart and do only what feels right until you're fully recovered. Drink lots of water while you exercise, as well as afterwards.

Source: fitlinxx.com