by Lauren Walker
We’ve all heard, exercise is good for the immune system. Sure we are told a lot of things about exercise but I had to sit in wonder what exactly does exercise do to your immune system?
Does exercise impact your immune system? According to a 2019 review in the Journal of Sport and Health Science it found exercise can improve your immune response, lower illness risk, and reduce inflammation.
What exercise is recommended? This study concentrated on aerobic training such as walking, running, cycling. A moderate pace which allows you to reach 60% of your maximum is ideal. Beginners should aim for three days a week for 30 to 45 minutes a day. More experienced exercisers should continue with their exercise program if it is supporting their needs.
Why? Found on Health.com the director of the Study, David Nieman, DrPH found “that typically, people only have a small number of immune cells circulating around the body. Those cells prefer to hang out in lymphoid tissues and organs like the spleen, where your body kills viruses, bacteria, and other microorganisms that cause disease. Exercise increases blood and lymph flow as your muscles contract, it also increases the circulation of immune cells, making them roam the body at a higher rate and at higher numbers. Specifically, exercise helps to recruit highly specialized immune cells, such as natural killer cells and T cells, find pathogens (like viruses) and wipe them out.”
Exercise is much like medicine. Taking the appropriate dose is beneficial as it allows the body to raise its defense system against viruses. The more frequently you do it the more your body develops immunity. Making it a part of your day can only help to support a strong body and mind.
Go and Exercise your immunity!