New study finds link between exercise and reduced risk of severe COVID-19 - CBS News

A new study finds a link between exercise and reduced risk of severe COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected the world in countless ways. Still, one area that has received increasing attention in recent months is the relationship between physical activity and the risk of severe illness from the virus. A new study has found a clear link between exercise and a reduced risk of severe COVID-19, providing further evidence of the importance of staying active during these challenging times.

 The study, which was published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, analyzed data from more than 48,000 adults in the United Kingdom who had been infected with COVID-19 between January and November 2020. The researchers found that those who had been regularly active in the year leading up to their infection were significantly less likely to be hospitalized, admitted to an intensive care unit, or die from the virus compared to those who had been sedentary.

The findings are consistent with previous research that has shown a positive association between physical activity and a reduced risk of viral respiratory illnesses, including the common cold, flu, and pneumonia. The study is also significant because it is one of the first to examine the relationship between exercise and COVID-19 outcomes.

So, what might explain the link between exercise and a reduced risk of severe COVID-19? A number of potential mechanisms have been suggested. First, regular exercise has been shown to enhance the immune system, improving its ability to fight off infections. Exercise has been found to increase the circulation of immune cells, reduce inflammation, and enhance the production of antibodies and other immune system proteins.

 Additionally, exercise has been shown to improve lung function and cardiovascular health, which are both important factors in the ability to recover from respiratory illnesses. COVID-19 attacks the respiratory system, and individuals with underlying respiratory or cardiovascular conditions are at increased risk of severe illness and complications. Exercise can help to strengthen these systems and reduce the risk of complications.

The study's authors caution that the findings do not prove causation and that other factors may also be at play in the relationship between exercise and COVID-19 outcomes. For example, individuals who engage in regular physical activity may also be more likely to have healthy lifestyles in other areas, such as diet, sleep, and stress management, all of which can affect immune function and overall health.

 Despite these limitations, the study's results are significant and add to the growing body of evidence supporting the importance of physical activity for overall health and well-being, particularly during a pandemic. The World Health Organization recommends that adults engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity physical activity per week, along with muscle-strengthening exercises at least two days per week.

While some may find it challenging to maintain a regular exercise routine during the pandemic, there are many creative ways to stay active while adhering to social distancing guidelines. These include outdoor activities such as walking, running, cycling, or hiking, as well as indoor workouts such as yoga, strength training, or dance. There are also a wealth of online fitness classes and workout videos available for free or at a low cost.

In addition to the physical benefits of exercise, staying active can help alleviate stress and anxiety, which are common during times of uncertainty and upheaval. The mental health benefits of exercise are well-established, and regular physical activity has been shown to improve mood, reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, and enhance the overall quality of life.

In conclusion, the new study linking exercise to a reduced risk of severe COVID-19 is a welcome addition to the growing body of evidence supporting the importance of physical activity for overall health and well-being. While more research is needed to fully understand the relationship between exercise and COVID-19 outcomes, the findings are consistent with previous research and highlight the importance of staying active during these challenging times. By making physical activity a priority, individuals can not only.