Training with Mono

Medical Q&A [Moderated]
1

Hi Docs, I was diagnosed with mono a week ago but started having symptoms 2-3 weeks ago. I have not been lifting in the past two weeks. Is it ok to lift with mono? If not, when would it be ok to start lifting again? I have been golfing a few times a week with the mono. Is this ok because I have the energy for it or is it just prolonging my recovery? What kind of physical activity is ok? I have lost 12 pounds in the past 2-3 weeks. I am guessing it is due to not eating as much because of the severe sore throat I was having. Could there be another reason?

Thank you!

2

Complications from mononucleosis are most common in the first 3 weeks after onset of symptoms, whereas they are quite rare beyond 4 weeks.

There is not a lot of high quality data to guide recommendations here, but in general, non-contact sports / exercise activities can generally be resumed after 3 weeks. We would recommend starting conservatively and using autoregulation in your strength training as well.