BCM: It’s okay to skip your workout, in some cases
Although exercise should be a part of your daily routine, it's
important to know when your body needs a break, according to an expert
at Baylor College of Medicine.
“It's not ideal to work out when you're sick because you’re stressing
your system out,” said Dr. David Green, assistant professor of
orthopedic surgery at BCM. “The same thing is true after a recent
surgery; your body is trying to recover from the surgery.”
If you still want to stay active, consider using simple things such as
arm bands for gentle exercises, but stay away from heavy aerobic
exercises, he said.
“If you’re experiencing some joint or muscle pain, it's your body’s way
of telling you that you’re overdoing it, so you should back off. Try
using a heating pad or taking anti-inflammatory medication to help with
the pain,” said Green.
In general, be sure to have some type of snack about an hour before a
workout; do not try to exercise on an empty stomach. If you’re over the
age of 40 and just starting heavy exercise for the first time, be sure
to consult with your physician first. Also consult with a physician if
you’ve had any respiratory, cardiac or joint issues in the past.
