Sport for colds better with the sport pause?

Sport in case of a cold: continue to train or better pause?
Regular exercise is healthy. But what should athletes do when they have caught a cold? Is it better to continue training or take a break? A sports scientist of the Techniker Krankenkasse (TK) has answers.

If you have significant symptoms, take a break from exercise
Sore throat, a runny nose and a headache: The wet, cold weather of the past weeks caused so many people for a strong cold. Statistically speaking, every adult has a cold for two to three years. Although health experts urge to cure an infection always correct, but by no means everyone sticks to it. Above all, people who like to do sports often do not want to give up their favorite hobby. In some cases, however, they are strongly advised to do so. As Uwe-Folker Haase, sports scientist at the Techniker Krankenkasse (TK) explained in a press release, athletes should with clear symptoms such as fever, body aches or an increased resting heartbeat pause for training. "Anyone who does sports then risks heart muscle inflammation in the worst case," warns the expert.

Physical stress can cause serious health problems with a cold. (Image: Maridav / fotolia.com)

"Cozy walk in the fresh air"
For light infections, however, the situation is different: "Here, there is no general recipe except to trust one's own voice. Everyone brings a different basic fitness, another immune system, "says Haase. The sports scientist therefore advises to listen carefully and to dose loads in the cold phase: "A leisurely walk in the fresh air can support the body in defense against pathogens," explains the TC expert. However, caution is advised: "In case of a mild cold, the weakened immune system is already working at peak performance anyway. In case of doubt one should therefore better suspend training. "

Prevent colds
However, the rule of thumb "Sport is the best medicine" applies without restriction for the prevention of colds. "If you move a lot, you strengthen your immune system," says Haase. According to him, studies show that regular exercise significantly reduces the risk of cold. Already slight movement strengthens the immune system, and thus can protect against infections. And of course, diet plays an important role in preventing colds. Good winter vitamin C suppliers include peppers and mandarins. (Ad)