How soon can I start exercising again after the flu?

May 20, 2026
ByHoward E. LeWine, MD,

Chief Medical Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing
Share
Print This Page

Q.I’m just recovering from the flu and am wondering how quickly I can safely get back to my workouts. I’ve read that doing too much too soon can increase the risk of heart infections. What is “too much, too soon” in this case?

A. Indeed, you are correct. The recommendations about returning to

About the Author

Howard E. LeWine, MD,
Chief Medical Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing

Dr. Howard LeWine is a practicing internist at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, Chief Medical Editor at Harvard Health Publishing, and editor in chief of Harvard Men’s Health Watch.
See Full Bio
View all posts by Howard E. LeWine, MD
Share
Print This Page

Disclaimer:

As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.

No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.