When is it ok to skip my workout?

As great as it is to be motivated and fully engaged in your workout program, there is a point at which it becomes unhealthy. There are certain times when you shouldn’t work out, even if you had originally planned to or if it’s in your schedule to do so.

For some, exercise can become addictive. Those with an exercise addiction can force themselves to go to the gym, even if they know they shouldn’t be working out, for whatever reason.

But even if you don’t have an exercise addiction, there are still situations in which working out is not the best thing to do. So, what are these situations?

You are sleep deprived

How tired are you? If you are feeling a little low energy, a workout might be just what you need as exercise can boost your energy. However, if you are sleep-deprived, you might be better off skipping your regular workout.  Lack of sleep can impair our reaction times and cognitive function, making us more at risk for injury. Take your workout time and use it instead to map out a strategy for better sleep, including a bedtime routine, good sleep hygiene and accessing underlying causes of missed sleep.

You’re still sore from your previous workout

If you’re a serial exerciser,  you might be tempted to exercise every day of the week. Doing so might sound ideal at first, but more isn’t always better when it comes to physical activity.

If you’ve recently done a tough workout and your muscles are sore, it’s your body’s way of telling you to slow down and rest. It’s during your rest days that you make progress and gain muscle. Working out while your muscles are still sore and inflamed can damage the muscle and increase your risk of injury.

You’re feeling sick

When you’re sick, your body requires more energy to recover and fight off the disease or illness. While you might feel okay working out when you’re sick, it’s important not to overdo it and push your body too far. Doing so could cause you to feel worse and could prolong the sickness. The general rule of thumb is not to workout if you are sick “below the neck” or have a fever.  If your symptoms are “above the neck” it is generally okay to exercise but do so at home, or by yourself outside.