One of the benefits of regular exercise is a strong immune system, but everybody succumbs to a winter bug occasionally. Sometimes you need to make a judgement call about whether a workout is a good idea.  
The best way to assess your situation is to apply the “neck check”. If the sickness is above the neck you’re generally safe to exercise. This includes a mild headache, sore or scratchy throat, nasal congestion, sneezing or teary eyes. In this case a little light exercise can stimulate the immune system.  However it’s important to proceed extra cautiously if you have taken medication to relieve your symptoms. Without symptoms to guide you it’s hard to tell how sick you really are and it’s easy to overdo it.
If symptoms are below the neck you should definitely take the day off the gym. This includes chest congestion, stomach cramps or vomiting, diarrhea, general aches and fever. Some illnesses require all the strength of the immune system and can be aggravated by the dehydration and muscle fatigue that occurs with exercise. It’s better to stay home for two days than try to be a hero and end up home for two weeks.  
Rest does not mean sitting on the couch indulging in comfort eating!  If you’re serious about healing your body you need to get lots of fresh foods, good quality protein and water.  Sleep is the best healer of all.  Skipping a couple of gym workouts won’t lead to weight gain as long as you’re careful with your treat foods while you’re temporarily sedentary.  
The key to good health is to exercise regularly when you are well and be sensible when you are not.  It’s futile to put your fitness ahead of your health and if you attempt it you’ll only compromise both. Wishing you warmth and wellness this winter!

Les Mills Takapuna:- Rooftoop, Shore City. Phone 488 9413 or visit: www.lesmills.co.nz