Exercise Can Protect us From Colds

Occurrences of getting a cold can be greatly reduced by exercising moderately (like walking) for 45 minutes a day. David C. Nieman, Dr PH, an expert from the American College of Sports Medicine stated that numerous studies have shown a 25 to 50 percent decrease in sick time for active people. Neiman said, “ this reduction in illness far exceeds anything a drug can offer”. All we have to do is walk for 45 minutes a day on a regular basis to reduce our chance of getting a common cold.

If you are already sick and not sure if you should workout, Neiman give you these tips:

• OK to exercise if your cold is confined to your head, like a runny nose or sore throat.
• Take it easy if you have a cold, keep the exercise to a moderate-intensity level like walking.
• Don’t exercise if it goes beyond the sniffles of a cold such as: respiratory infection, fever, swollen glands or extreme aches and pains.
• If you’re recovering from a serious cold or flu, continue exercising after two weeks of rest.

Neiman also recommends exercising before receiving your flu shot. Moderate exercise just before getting the shot can improve the body’s response to the vaccine.

For more information on this topic check out this article from the New York Times: Does Exercise Boost Immunity?