Follow the above the neck rule - and do a lighter workout. Its a good time to get extra stretching in. But I stay away from the gym or very cautious using just cardio equipment then wipe down - because in fairness to others, you are often contagious at beginning of cold.

I also follow the "above the neck" rule. Unless it's a serious sinus thing with a fever (which I did have this year and skipped a day then until the antibiotics kicked in), I go if it's above the neck. Anything below the neck (stomach/etc.), I don't go. Stomach things are a lot more contagious generally and for longer periods of time. So not only for myself, out of respect to my fellow yogis, I make sure not to go into a sweaty yoga room when I may be contagious still.

If I feel something bad coming on I usually try to do a really intense workout, knowing that I may not be able to again for a bit. Then hydrate like crazy.

Depends on how strenuously I'm going to exercise. I was feeling sick and went on a 4 hour intense bike ride about a decade ago and was in bed for a week afterwards. I might to a bit of light exercise, but generally I don't.

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:I do some light exercise because I figure I'm going to feel worse the next day and not go at all. So at least I've done something that week.

This.

I usually exercise every day.

I do have days where I am tired or not feeling well or whatever, and those days I do like 60 minutes of moderate cardio and just don't push myself, or lift weights.

This sounds really unhealthy. I am an avid runner -- 30 to 40 miles a week -- but I always take two rest days a week. Its the key to fitness because your muscles need to rebuild, thats how you get stronger. If you think 60 minutes is a light day, and you don't take any rest days, it sounds really compulsive. Eventually your body will fight back.

20:16 again: I agree with the need for rest wholeheartedly. I've been an athlete for 20+ years (running, rowing, swimming) and I've always taken one rest day/week. I think that's a big part of what's helped me stay with it this long. Your body and mind need the rest. I'll run in all kinds of crazy conditions (Snowmaggedon? Bring it on!), but I won't give up my day of rest.