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JUNE 26, 2009Provided by RealAge.com

When to Back Off from Exercise

Sometimes it’s hard to know whether working out could make a minor sore throat or the sniffles worse.

Luckily, there’s a rule of thumb you can follow. In her book Outdoor Fitness, exercise expert Tina Vindum recommends an above-the-neck check.

Here’s How It Works
"If your symptoms are from the neck up, ask yourself: 'Do I feel like working out?’" recommends Vindum. If the answer is yes, then go for it. But if your symptoms are all below the neck -- it’s difficult to breathe, your chest feels tight, or you’re wheezing and coughing -- don’t exercise. Give yourself a break and rest up. Visit the RealAge Sinus Center for all you need to know about soothing your schnoz.

Give Colds the Cold Shoulder
The best way to keep your fitness routine intact? Avoid a cold in the first place. Try these immune-boosting tips: Find out what really revs up your immune system -- and what doesn’t -- with the quiz in this article.

RealAge Benefit: Protecting your immune system can make your RealAge as much as 6 years younger.



Take the RealAge Test

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