Recent Blog Articles

The formula shortage is hurting families: What parents should know and do

Gyn Care 101: What to know about seeing a gynecologist

Swimming lessons save lives: What parents should know

Strong legs help power summer activities: Hiking, biking, swimming, and more

What is a successful mindset for weight loss maintenance?

French fries versus almonds: Calorie for calorie, which comes out on top?

Summer camp 2022: Having fun and staying safe

Finding balance: 3 simple exercises to steady your steps

An action plan to fight unhealthy inflammation

How to recognize and tame your cognitive distortions
Staying Healthy
How long should I wait after the flu before resuming exercise?
On call
Q. I have just recovered from the flu. How soon can I resume exercise again and can I go straight back to my previous routine?
A. The recommendations about when to return to exercise after respiratory infections, such as the flu, colds, or bronchitis, are vague. One major reason is that each person's response to illness is so variable. But here is my general advice.
Most healthy people who have a cold or mild bronchitis without a fever or significant cough can continue to exercise during their illness. However, you initially want to cut your intensity and duration in half. If you feel good later in the day after your lighter workout, you can gradually increase how much you do during your next session. But if you feel exhausted after exercising, take off an extra day before working out again.
With the flu or any respiratory illness that causes high fever, muscle aches, and fatigue, wait until the fever is gone before getting back to exercise. Your first workout back should be light so you don't get out of breath, and you want to progress slowly as you return to your normal routine. You may be tempted to ramp it up, but it's best to go low (low intensity) and go slow (short duration).
— by Howard LeWine, M.D.
Editor in Chief, Harvard Men's Health Watch
Disclaimer:
As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.
No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.
Free Healthbeat Signup
Get the latest in health news delivered to your inbox!