With the flu, is it better to work out or rest? – GOOD SHAPE

It is true that exercises strengthen immunity and prevent flu and colds. But if the disease has already caught you, it’s not always the best thing to do is hit the gym. See what experts at the American College of Sports Medicine, the leading American institution of sports medicine, defend.

Read more: Know how to combine exercises and have a perfect training week

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Do 30 minutes of moderate activity every other day if symptoms are mild and are limited to headache, runny nose or cough. Back to gymnastics when it’s almost good. “The endorphins released by exercise have an analgesic and muscle relaxing effect, which is why they help alleviate mild symptoms”, explains infectologist Artur Timerman, from São Paulo. Stay in bed if the pain spreads beyond the head. That is, if you have a fever, respiratory tract infection (nose, larynx, pharynx, lungs), fever and body aches, rest.

Understand: When should I worry about the flu?

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Working out until you sweat, which won’t flush out viruses and bacteria and heal you. “Forcing the body beyond the limit can aggravate your condition, which is sensitive”, warns the doctor. Resume training right after coming out of a bad flu. The ideal is to wait at least two weeks and come back little by little. “Listening to the body is the best thing. If you feel bad in class, stop right away,” advises Timerman.