Helpful Ways to Exercise With Seasonal Allergies
If you're facing seasonal allergies, working out may be the last thing you want to do. After all, exercising with symptoms like watery eyes and a stuffy nose can make you feel worse. Fortunately, there are safe ways to burn calories and maintain a healthy weight through exercise, even if you have allergies. By taking these proper precautions while working out, you can minimize your exposure to allergens and keep your health in tip-top shape.
Plan Your Workout Times
It may be tempting to exercise whenever you feel like it. If you have allergies, however, this can be a mistake. In the event you're allergic to pollen, for example, running outdoors in the early morning is not a good idea as this is peak pollen time.
Be sure to check the weather to find out local pollen counts before you step outside for your workout. If your schedule prevents you from working out at times other than those when pollen counts are high, move your workout indoors.
Warm Up
If you're on a tight schedule, you may want to jump straight into your workout. To reduce your allergy symptoms while you exercise and prevent serious injuries, warm up beforehand. You can do jumping jacks, squats, or high knees. A short, simple five minute warm up can increase your heart rate and improve your circulation, freeing you of mucus and congestion.
Choose Low-Impact Exercises
You don't have to run a marathon or make it through a high-intensity HIIT class to get in a good workout. Since high-impact exercise may boost inflammation and worsen your allergies, stick to low-impact alternatives. Go for a walk around your neighborhood, swim laps at a local pool, or participate in yoga or weight training.
Drink Plenty of Water
While it's always important to drink water, doing so is particularly crucial if you're working out with seasonal allergies. If you're taking allergy medications, they may dry you out and warrant the need for ample hydration. Make sure you fill up a large water bottle before you work out so that you can drink up before, during, and after your routine.
Know When to Stop
Don't "push yourself" if you have seasonal allergies. If you're exercising and find yourself out of breath, in pain, or feeling uncomfortable, stop immediately. Take a seat, relax, and drink plenty of water. Give yourself some time to rest and recover from your workout. If you still don't feel better or find yourself conscious, visit the nearest emergency room.
If you're new to exercise or are unsure of what is safe, consult your doctor. They can help you design an effective workout routine and keep your allergies in check.
