Despite season, exercise still important to good health

Cold workouts

Now that the weather has turned colder, it's harder to exercise outside. But the American College of Sports Medicine reminds you it's worth it.

Numerous studies have shown a 25- to 50-percent decrease in sick time for people who do at least 45 minutes of moderate exercise (such as walking) most days of the week.

What if you're already sick? The sports docs offer these tips:

• Exercise if your illness is confined to your head, such as a runny nose or sore throat. Studies have shown no negative effects for those who exercise while they have the common cold.

• Don't overdo it. Keep exercise to a moderate level, such as walking, that won't cause you to overheat.

• Stay in bed if your illness is "systemic" - involving respiratory infection, fever, swollen glands, body aches, etc.

• Take your time recovering. If you had a more serious bout of cold or flu, give yourself a couple of weeks before getting back to full workouts.

Heart screening

The McHenry County Health Department will offer a cardiovascular screening this week.

The test will measure total cholesterol, LDL and HDL cholesterol, fasting blood glucose, triglycerides, and blood pressure.

The screening will be from 8 a.m. to noon Wednesday, Oct. 21, at McHenry County College, 8900 Northwest Highway, Crystal Lake.

Participation requires a 12-hour fast and an appointment, and costs $35. Call (815) 334-4536.