Need an extra dose of motivation for those lockdown workouts?

Never before have the nation’s exercise routines been so visible, with streets, parks and public spaces regularly dotted with walkers, joggers and cyclists huffing and puffing their way through their permitted daily exercise.

But while it’s well established that being physically active is good for physical and mental health, how it affects the immune system has sometimes been the topic of debate. Some studies have suggested immunity is temporarily compromised after strenuous exercise, while other research says exercise is beneficial for immunity - so what does this mean for all those lockdown workouts?

Good news: a new University of Bath review has concluded that regular exercise does help maintain a healthy immune system.

Immunity expert and study co-author Dr James Turner explains: “In the context of coronavirus, the most important consideration is reducing your exposure from other people who may be carrying the virus. But people shouldn’t overlook the importance of staying fit, active and healthy during this period. Provided it’s carried out away from others, then regular, daily exercise will help better maintain the way the immune system works.”

He says regular moderate-intensity aerobic exercise - such as walking, running or cycling - is recommended, with the aim of achieving 150 minutes per week. “Longer, more vigorous exercise wouldn’t be harmful, but if capacity to exercise is restricted due to a health condition or disability, the message is to move more and that something is better than nothing,” says Turner.

“Given the important role exercise has for reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease, cancer and type 2 diabetes, the findings from our analysis emphasise that people shouldn’t be put off exercise for fear that it will dampen their immune system. Clearly, the benefits of exercise, including endurance sports, outweigh any negative effects which people may perceive.”

Here, Turner and Campbell outline some of the ways exercise is beneficial to the immune system...

1. Vigorous exercise can help improve the immune system rather than suppress it 2. Exercise may limit ageing of the immune system

3. Wounds heal faster if you’re fit

4. Exercise boosts natural ‘killer cells’

5. Regular exercise helps the immune system identify germs better

6. Exercise improves vaccination response

7. It’s good for health overall

But do remember to stay safe and sensible