To train or not to train

It's accepted wisdom that while moderate exercise builds resistance to disease, high intensity exercise can increase the body's vulnerability.

 

Doctors who work with Olympic athletes often report that their patients are repeatedly struck down by mysterious infections. The symptoms often include swollen glands, headaches and fever. But blood tests fail to find any sign of infection. Sports health specialists admit they are mystified by the phenomenon.

 

According to the latest issue of Australian Doctor, the cause may be an over-active immune system, stimulated by high-intensity exercise. Another theory has it that the high intensity training program kick-starts inactive viruses in the body such as the Epstein-Barr virus or cytomegalovirus.

 

Doctors treating athletes are often presented with the problem of advising patients when it's safe to start training. Elite athletes are often raring to get back on the track or into the pool after a bout of illness and many want to keep training while ill so as not to lose hard won form.

 

But exercise may delay recovery in some cases. Australian Doctor advises that if the symptoms are not systemic - such as the normal sniffles of your garden-variety cold - then training is permitted providing it is 50 per cent of normal intensity.However, if the athlete has fever, muscle aches, general malaise or excessive fatigue, then a complete break from training is advised.

 

Even keen recreational athletes are warned that illness can reduce muscle size and performance. The best remedy for illnesses like the flu is a complete break from the gym or track until symptoms clear.

 

Aussie Bodies physiotherapist, Andrew Lock has even better advice: avoid illness altogether.

 

"Savvy trainers and athletes who don't want to lose condition or form through illness will get a 'flu vaccination before the season starts," he said.

 

"Sportsmen and women are often in close contact with each other, particularly in team sports, and risk exposure.

 

"Infections can also be transmitted by the coughing and spitting which are part and parcel of heavy training, and through shared equipment such as water bottles. So make sure you have your own sports drink and a towel for those sweaty summer months!"