Running with a Lurgy: Should You Lace Up When You’re Under the Weather?

Day 1,711 consecutive days of run vlogging (yes, really – every single day), today I found myself grappling with the big question: Should you run when you’ve got the dreaded lurgy?

As I’m running a lap of the world (that’s 40,075km barefoot!) with the mission to raise £1,000,000 for children’s causes, there are days – just like today – where skipping a session simply isn’t an option. Here’s my honest, sweaty take on powering through a bug, so you don’t risk making rookie mistakes, I’ve learnt the hard way.

The Brutal Truth: Don’t Be a Hero

Let’s cut straight to the chase: if you’re ill, the BEST thing you can do for your body is rest. I know, I know, the urge to keep that run streak alive or hit weekly mileage targets can be strong. Today, the only reason I’m out is that my charity challenge demands it. If I wasn’t committed to this monumental fundraising mission, I’d definitely be home, letting my body recover.

Why Pushing Through Isn’t Smart

Here’s what running felt like for me today:

• My heart rate spiked at least 10 beats per minute higher than normal.

• Breathing got tougher, making everything feel harder than it should.

• Recovery risk? Way higher when your immune system is already battling bugs.

Too often, we ignore these warning signs – but your body’s telling you to slow down for a reason.

Track Your Heart Rate – It Never Lies

After 1,700+ days of running, if I’ve learned anything, it’s that metrics don’t lie. A heart rate that’s higher than usual, especially at the same intensity or pace, means your body’s fighting something.

Pro tip: If your heart rate shoots up unexpectedly, don’t push it. This could be a silent sign your immune system’s under siege, even if you feel “fine”.

When You Have to Run: Damage Limitation

Of course, there’ll always be those of you as stubborn (or mission-driven) as I am. If you absolutely must get out there, go gentle:

• Keep the pace slow.

• Cut the distance short.

• Ignore the kudos-chasing – today’s about survival, not achievement.

A light recovery run might help keep your immune system moving, but it’s never worth risking setbacks or injury.

Real Talk: You Won’t Break Your Streak, You’ll Break Your Body

I’m out here daily because children’s lives are on the line, and every run raises funds and awareness for causes that desperately need it. But if I wasn’t doing this, I’d be RESTING – and you should, too.

Put your ego aside and listen to your body. You’re far more likely to return stronger, faster, and happier – with fewer injuries and missed weeks – if you let yourself heal first.

Getting Involved

I’m here, sniffles and all, to prove a point: running every day isn’t easy, especially when you’re ill, but big missions demand big sacrifices. If you want to support my mission to raise £1,000,000 for children’s causes, share this post, donate if you can, and remind a fellow runner: heroes don’t ignore illness – they recover smarter.

Questions? Tips? Want to share your own “running with the lurgy” story? Drop a comment – let’s keep this running community strong, healthy, and ultra-supportive.

Stay positive, stay happy – and run responsibly.

– Kevin, The Runpreneur

Inspired by Day 1,711 of my barefoot lap of the world. Follow my journey, support the cause, and remember: sometimes the bravest thing you can do is rest.