Physical Exercise During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Subject: Physiology
Pages: 1
Words: 283
Reading time:
< 1 min
Study level: College

Physical exercise has numerous benefits to the body including improving its immune response. The immune system comprises many white blood cells within the bone marrow that protect the body from diseases and infections. Exercising increases immune response by stimulating the production of white blood cells. Elevated temperatures during physical activity may also suppress the growth of bacteria, thereby protecting the body from certain diseases. In addition to this, exercising could help rinse bacteria out of the airways and lungs. This decreases the likelihood of contracting a cold or flu. Physical activity also decreases the production of stress hormones within the body. These hormones typically increase the risk of some diseases such as high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, and depression. Exercise moderates stress which reduces a person’s susceptibility to such diseases. Generally, physical activity improves the body’s immune response and ability to protect against infections.

Due to the benefits that can be accrued from exercising, people should be physically active during the pandemic. Engaging in physical activity improves a person’s immune response and could help in fighting the virus. It also decreases the risk of some of the underlying conditions that correlate with COVID-19 mortality such as hypertension and diabetes. Additionally, exercising improves one mental health by decreasing anxiety and stress. This is beneficial during the ongoing pandemic especially as many people have reported a decline in mental wellness. Consequently, improved mental health may help the body fight the virus in case one contracts it. Physical exercise during the pandemic benefits both the mind and the body, which can improve a person’s immune response. Therefore, people should strive to be active while also adhering to the World Health Organization’s guidelines on the COVID-19.