Exercise is important for body, mind

S^ ż ڂ ġ Ǔľ ڂ HĖÄĩÄHյ Can I continue to exercise even if I don't feel well, or should I hold off until I start to feel better?

ĩƉdž^żյ The answer to that question depends largely on what's wrong. For example, if you have symptoms of the common cold, it's usually fine to keep exercising. It may even help you feel a little better. If you have a fever or other more severe symptoms, it's best to put your exercise routine on hold until those symptoms go away.

Exercise is important for your body and mind. Regular exercise can help you maintain a healthy weight, keep your blood sugar and blood cholesterol levels in check, increase bone strength and help manage stress, just to name a few benefits.

For healthy adults, the recommendation is 150 minutes of aerobic exercise each week. That includes activities such as running, biking, jogging, swimming, brisk walking and dancing. Many people break up their weekly aerobic activity into 30-minute sessions, five days a week. In addition, your exercise routine should include at least two 20- to 30-minute sessions of strength training a week, which many people have a tendency to forget. Remember, too, that even if you don't get to the recommended level of exercise sometimes, any amount of exercise, even if it's just 10 minutes of walking, has benefits.

When you're not feeling well, it's still fine to exercise in some cases. A good rule of thumb to follow is if you have symptoms above the neck, such as a runny nose, sneezing, nasal congestion or a minor sore throat, you're OK to exercise. In those cases, exercise may even help you feel better by opening up your nasal passages. However, you may want to reduce the intensity and length of your workout, and limit group activities. Instead of running, for example, go for a walk.

If you work out when you're having some symptoms of illness, make sure you stay attuned

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