During this pandemic, the federal government, the Mississippi government, and various health organizations have all advised (and sometimes ordered) all citizens to practice social distancing. This also involves the closing of all nonessential businesses and advises employees to work from home if possible. These nonessential businesses also include gyms. Gyms provide a great place to exercise during the week, and some even offer martial arts classes; however, gyms also allow for easier transmission of illnesses, but this does not mean people cannot exercise. In fact, during a pandemic, exercise is even more important.
Exercise is important, but during a pandemic, exercise is even more important because this boosts the immune system, which prevents infections. Although many gyms are closed, exercise is still extremely important. According to CNN Health, “research shows that ‘fit individuals’—defined as those who partake in regular physical activity—have a lower incidence of infection compared to inactive and sedentary individuals.” If someone is physically healthy, this will improve his or her immune system and either prevent infection or ease the infection’s affects. Furthermore, physical activity “may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases that could further weaken your immune system, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes and obesity.” These chronic diseases make those affected more at risk for coronavirus, and exercise helps prevent and manage them. Exercise also allows one to “flush bacteria out of the lungs” and better manage stress. In addition to social distancing and hand washing, exercise may prove as the other main weapon in the fight against coronavirus.
Although many gyms may close, this does not mean that people cannot exercise. Many exercises can be done at home. For instance, most calisthenics can be done at home without any equipment; push-ups, sit-ups, planks, jumping jacks, burpees, and many other similar exercises can all be done without equipment (and they are also surprisingly intense). Anyone with some basic dumbbells can also do many different exercises with these weights. Furthermore, people can also do many different forms of cardio at home—walking, running, or punching a heavy bag. Although this is not the same as a gym experience, this still provides a way for people to exercise while practicing social distancing, and exercise may also provide the immune system with an invaluable boost.
While social distancing and hand washing remain the two best ways to fight the coronavirus, exercise may also be another weapon in the fight against the pandemic. Exercise strengthens the immune system and provides many other health benefits. Exercise is important at all times, but in a pandemic, this may prove even more important. Even without a gym, people can still practice many exercises at home and with basic or no equipment. This type of home exercise may prove a valuable weapon in the fight against the coronavirus pandemic, and hopefully, any exercise habits started during this time will continue after the pandemic has ended.
