When you’re training in martial arts, you probably don’t want to miss a class, and you especially don’t want to miss a match. But sometimes, you may not have a choice, such as when you’re sick. When you’re not feeling well, it may not be the best idea to perform the necessary rigors your body goes through during training and especially during a match.
Deciding whether to go to class or a match when you’re sick doesn’t just involve you. It involves your teammates and anyone else around you. If you’re contagious, you could get other people sick. Even if you’re not contagious, your illness could impact your concentration, and you could end up getting hurt or hurting someone else.
If you’re not sure what to do when you’re sick and have a class or match coming up, the best thing you can do is talk to your teacher. See what he has to say, and if there’s a policy at your school about practicing or performing when you’re sick. You can also check with your doctor to see what he recommends. You may be sicker than you think, and exerting yourself could really hurt you. Your doctor will be able to tell you if you should treat your illness with rest, or if it’s ok to exert yourself.
The decision whether to participate in martial arts when you’re sick is up to you. But before jumping in and deciding to tough it out, think about what you may be doing to your body or what you may be exposing those around you to. Make sure participating when you’re sick is worth it. Deciding not to participate when you’re sick could be best for everyone.
