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Walking Excuse Busters
Excuse: I've Got a Cold

By Wendy Bumgardner, About.com

Updated December 01, 2004

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by our Medical Review Board

Runny nose? Congestion? Coughing? Sneezing? And you think we'll let you get out of walking today just because you can't breathe?

Bust it:
• Above the neck rule: If your symptoms are all above the neck (runny nose, etc.), you are safe to walk at an easy to moderate pace.
• If you have any symptoms below the neck such as a hacking cough, diarrhea, swollen lymph glands - don't exercise.
• If you have a fever, chills, or body aches, do not exercise.
• Walk 10 minutes at an easy pace. If you feel OK, continue. If you don't -stop and just do stretching and flexibility exercises. These can make you feel better in general.
• Be a good sport - don't share your cold. Avoid groups of people. Don't sneeze on your walking partner. Wash your hands often.

Next Excuse > My Family Misses Me

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