I am on week 4 of the couch to 5k and have a stinking cold. Would like to keep doing the training - should I stop if I have a cold?

[Tricky-Nicky]

[misswobble Graduate]

They say, and I don;t know if it's true or not as I'm not a doctor, that if your cold is in your head you're ok to keep running. If the cold is on your chest you should not run

I ran with sinus and a very runny nose and earache but it's no fun I can tell you. You might just go to bed with a hot water bottle and some Neurofen and rest up for a bit til the worst of the bout is over. If your chest is bad you can do more harm than good!!!!

You have to play it by ear. Only you know how you feel and whether you feel fit to run. I hope you'll be well enough as interrupting your C25K journey is so annoying

[runner56 Graduate]

Generally, the guidance is along the lines of if the cold is above the neck, you can run, if its below the neck, you should rest.

You will be the best judge however.

[Alaiyo Graduate]

Good advice above from others about the head vs chest cold. I think it also worth noting that it should depend on how you are feeling. If you are really in rough shape, then take a steamy shower and a nap instead, and let yourself heal. If you feel so good that you are chomping at the bit to go, you can give it a try.

Just remember that you are sick, and can't expect your body to be able to perform at its peak. If you go out and find you can't keep your normal pace, or have to take a break part-way through, be nice to yourself and accept that limitation until you feel better.

And remember, it's great to follow the program schedule and develop the running habit, but it is also just fine to go slower, take time off when you are sick and generally listen to your body. As long as you return to it when you can, you are doing the work, and will get the rewards. There is no deadline to push against, so don't stress overmuch about "falling behind". It isn't actually possible to fall behind without a deadline. Sick happens. And that's ok.

[Tricky-Nicky]

Thanks everyone. I felt rubbish so took to bed with a small brandy. I hope to be able to get back on track tomorrow.