The immune-boosting power of this simple daily habit

Everyone know that regular exercise makes people generally healthier, but can it actually increase your body’s ability to fight off disease and infection?

The short answer is – almost certainly. In a study titled ‘The compelling link between physical activity and the body’s defense system’, researchers found that workouts of moderate-to-vigorous intensity stimulated “the ongoing exchange of distinct and highly active immune cell subtypes between the circulation and tissues.” With near daily sessions of under an hour each, the physiological changes produced by these workouts added up to “enhance immune defense activity and metabolic health.”

In simpler terms, exercise contributes to good holistic health – and therefore to a healthy immune system – in much the same way a healthy, balanced diet does. But more specifically, regular physical activity promotes good circulation inside your body. According to The Harvard Medical School, the improved flow “allows the cells and substances of the immune system to move through your body freely and do their job efficiently.”

Will exercise prevent or treat acute respiratory infection

To protect yourself and others against Coronavirus, follow the government’s guidelines and advice from reputable health authorities. For links to trustworthy COVID-19 resources, visit the Discovery COVID-19 Information hub.

While a boosted immune system doesn’t mean that you won’t get sick from any cause, it may help your body respond to all kinds of different pathogens and increase the odds that you’ll "bounce back" quicker after falling sick.

Regular exercise does reduce the risk of chronic diseases

One thing all leading health authorities agree on is that exercising daily is worth it. Studies prove that even a moderate level of regular exercise can reduce the risk of lifestyle-related chronic diseases, like type 2 diabetes, hypertension, cardio-respiratory diseases and certain types of cancers.

Daily exercise can also help you sleep better, reduce your stress and anxiety, and improve mood, because hormones like endorphins, norepinephrine, dopamine and serotonin are secreted in higher amounts during exercise. So while it may seem like it’s harder to be physically active while you stay at home, it’s more important than ever to plan enough activity into your day, and limit the time you sit or remain sedentary.

Need Fitspiration?

Looking for motivation and structure to help you move more every day? Head over to the Vitality Home-Workout Channel – a daily schedule of FREE HIIT workouts, yoga, fitness challenges and more for the whole family. Choose from livestreamed workouts with JEFF to convenient pre-recorded sessions with amazing trainers from Virgin Active. PLUS, get valuable insights from our Vitality fitness experts. Find April’s workout schedule here.