Winter season is here, and so is the flu, which can be devastating for some people. To avoid getting sick, it is crucial to boost our immune systems. The best way to do that is through regular exercise.
Physical activity helps to strengthen our immune system and improve our overall health.
This article will highlight some of the best workouts to help you build immunity against the flu. These exercises will not only help you fight off the virus, but they will also keep you fit and healthy this winter season.
1. Walking
Walking is a fantastic way to stay active and build immunity. It is a low-impact exercise that can be done both indoors and outdoors. Going for a brisk walk for 30 minutes a day can significantly reduce your risk of getting the flu.
It helps to improve the circulation of white blood cells and antibodies, which are essential for fighting off infections. Walking in daylight can also improve our Vitamin D levels, which is essential for boosting immunity.
2. Yoga
If you are looking for a more calming way to build immunity, then try yoga. Yoga is a mind-body exercise that helps to reduce stress, promote relaxation, and improve flexibility.
Stress is detrimental to our immune system, and yoga helps to reduce it, which, in turn, strengthens our immune system. Additionally, yoga helps to improve our breathing, which helps to remove toxins from our body and promotes the flow of oxygen and nutrients to different parts of the body that are necessary for fighting off infections.
3. Strength Training
Strength training is an incredible way to build muscle and improve strength, which is essential for a healthy immune system.
Lifting weights or doing bodyweight exercises like push-ups, squats, and lunges can help improve bone density, which is crucial during the winter months when the risk of falls and fractures is higher. Strength training also helps to improve insulin sensitivity and cardiovascular health, both of which are essential for keeping our immune system in top shape.
4. High-intensity Interval Training (HIIT)
HIIT is a type of workout that involves short bursts of intense exercise followed by periods of rest. It is a great way to improve cardiovascular fitness and build muscle.
HIIT workouts involve intense movements that cause the body to produce more white blood cells, which are essential for fighting off infections. HIIT workouts also help to reduce inflammation in the body, which can reduce the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.
A typical HIIT workout can be done in just 15-20 minutes and can be done anywhere, making it perfect for those who have a busy schedule.
5. Swimming
Swimming is a low-impact exercise that can be done all year round. It is an excellent way to improve cardiovascular health, muscle strength, and flexibility.
Swimming involves using almost every muscle in the body, which helps to improve circulation and boost the immune system. It is also a fantastic way to reduce stress and promote relaxation, which, in turn, helps to strengthen the immune system.
6. Pilates
Pilates is a form of exercise that focuses on strengthening the core muscles and improving balance and flexibility. It involves slow and controlled movements that help to improve posture and reduce stress.
Practicing Pilates can help to reduce inflammation in the body and improve circulation, which are both crucial for a healthy immune system. Pilates can be done on a mat or with the use of specialized Pilates equipment, making it perfect for all fitness levels.
7. Dancing
Dancing is a fun and exciting way to get fit and build immunity. It is an aerobic exercise that gets the heart pumping and improves circulation. Dancing involves moving your body in various ways, helping to improve flexibility and balance.
It also helps to reduce stress and release tension, which, in turn, strengthens the immune system. Dancing can be done in a class or at home, making it a versatile and accessible way to stay active during the winter months.
8. Cycling
Cycling is an excellent way to improve cardiovascular health and strengthen the lower body muscles. It is a low-impact exercise that can be done both indoors and outdoors, making it perfect for all fitness levels.
Cycling helps to improve the circulation of white blood cells, which are essential for fighting off infections. It also helps to reduce stress and improve mental health, both of which are crucial for a healthy immune system.
9. Tai Chi
Tai Chi is a form of exercise that originated in China and involves slow and deliberate movements. It is a low-impact exercise that is perfect for all ages and fitness levels.
Tai Chi helps to improve balance, flexibility, and posture, which are essential for staying healthy during the winter months. It also helps to reduce stress and promote relaxation, which, in turn, strengthens the immune system.
10. Circuit Training
Circuit training involves a series of exercises done in a specific sequence. It is a great way to improve cardiovascular fitness, build muscle, and lose weight.
Circuit training involves high-intensity movements that can help to boost the immune system by increasing the production of white blood cells. It also helps to reduce inflammation in the body and improve insulin sensitivity, both of which are essential for keeping our immune system in top shape.
These ten exercises are great for building immunity against the flu and keeping you fit and healthy all winter long.
Whether you prefer low-impact exercises like walking and yoga or high-intensity workouts like HIIT and circuit training, there is something for everyone.
So, don’t let the flu get you down this winter. Get moving and start building immunity today!.