Comments on: Should You Cycle When Sick?

By: Raymond Parker

Raymond Parker — Mon, 30 Aug 2010 06:44:11 +0000

I’ve followed the “above the neck” rule for many years, but I think in the end it’s a bit of a crap shoot, because one never knows when a head cold might turn into something worse.

I also once ignored what started out as sniffle on a rock climbing trip and it turned into pneumonia.

Agree that it’s important to monitor bodily messages and take it easy. Don’t push it if your head also says it wants you to stay home and sip hot lemon and honey.

By: Loving the Bike

Loving the Bike — Mon, 30 Aug 2010 02:13:40 +0000

I’m glad you like the “above the neck” rule. I appreciate your comments, Sara. Thanks.

By: Loving the Bike

Loving the Bike — Mon, 30 Aug 2010 02:12:31 +0000

Very good points, John. I’m with you.

By: Loving the Bike

Loving the Bike — Mon, 30 Aug 2010 02:11:53 +0000

Well, one week later I’m not sure if riding all week helped or hurt me get over my cold faster. I feel great, but my nose is still plugged up. I know that next time I’ll do the same thing all over again. Thanks for your comments, Rob.

By: Cycling For Beginners

Cycling For Beginners — Mon, 30 Aug 2010 01:49:21 +0000

I often still cycle or otherwise exercise if I’m feeling bad. Usually I give myself permission to “wuss out” a bit and avoid some bigger hills or lift some lighter weights. Even though it usually feels like heck to exercise while sick, I do believe that it usually helps me to get well faster. Of course, sometimes I feel too bad and I let myself take a skip day.

Best,
Rob

By: John Romeo Alpha

John Romeo Alpha — Sun, 29 Aug 2010 01:29:13 +0000

Unless you are too sick to get out of bed, which answers the question itself, it’s probably better to get some moderate exercise than not. I’ve been looking for research or medical advise to the contrary for some time, and haven’t found any. If exercising makes your coughing worse that’s probably a reason to take it easy. But other than that, it’s probably helpful to get outside and increase your heart rate and breathing a bit. We’re beyond the times when people thought that getting cold caused a cold. If you get surgery these days, the nurses will be all but pushing you to get out of bed and walk around, to get the air moving and the digestion working.

By: AmieReilly

AmieReilly — Sun, 29 Aug 2010 01:08:48 +0000

Hi Darryl,

My old client who is a doctor said light to moderate HR exercise for about an hour will help you get better faster. I always try to get a little exercise when I’m sick since she said that. I love the “above the neck” rule and will definitely keep it in mind.

Cheers,
Sara

By: Clive Chapman

Clive Chapman — Sat, 28 Aug 2010 07:34:19 +0000

We’ve all come back early from injury and illness in our chosen sports throughout our lives I don’t doubt. That’s youth and an enthusiasm for what you’re doing. But I know I feel every rugby injury I’ve ever had during a long pedal now. If only we’d listened to our elders and betters eh?

I like the above the neck analogy by the way, I’ve never heard that one before. I’ll be blatantly nicking that one!

Glad you’re feeling better mate.

By: Darryl

Darryl — Sat, 28 Aug 2010 02:09:08 +0000

Yeah, I think it all really comes down to following some general rules…and then listening to your body to see what is best. Thanks for sharing what you’ve learned.

Darryl

By: Tracy W

Tracy W — Fri, 27 Aug 2010 19:02:02 +0000

My wife and I attended a running seminar last spring and that same question was asked. The answer provided there was that moderate exercise helps break up mucus and junk in your lungs where it can be cleared. They were pretty clear, however, that you should go lightly when you’re feeling bad or you can make it worse.

But…they were runners, not doctors.