Great question. Let me start by saying I’m not a medical professional, so I’m not technically qualified to give you that kind of advice. But, as someone who doesn’t like to miss a workout, I have researched and read up on the topic.
I’ve been feeling sick lately myself – headache, congestion, fatigue. My general rule of thumb is to “sweat it out”, but solo. I don’t go to crossfit when I’m feeling sick. Bringing my germs to a room full of people and sneezing on shared equipment? It’s inconsiderate to other gym-goers. Instead, I stick to a home workout or an outdoor run at a slower-than-usual pace.
There are also certain symptoms that I don’t think are best helped by “sweating it out”. If I’m sick to my stomach or have a fever, I focus on rest. Generally, my body is way too tired to do anything when I’m that kind of sick anyway.
Still not sure if you should sweat or stay home? The following graphic from precision nutrition is really helpful to determine what’s best:
What do you think? When do you sweat it out vs. stay in bed?