FIT FOR YOUR VACCINE
As more people are getting vaccinated as a collective protection against COVID-19, do you know that being physically active can boost the effectiveness of your shot? Read on to understand how it works!
Higher Antibody Count
A new study by Glasgow Caledonian University found that a person who is active is 50% more likely to have higher antibodies after a vaccine, in comparison to someone who is inactive.
Though having higher antibodies does not make you completely immune to COVID-19, a 2020 research has shown that antibody levels are closely linked with the ability to disarm the virus, which is the key to immunity.
Boosting Immune Response
As you work out, your muscles release Myokines which are effective in putting your body’s defences on high alert. In the long run, this helps your immune system to be more responsive and stronger with regular exercise.
Hence it is recommended for you to carry out at least 30 minutes of physical activity which includes yoga and walking, three days a week. As Singapore enters Phase 2 (Heightened Alert), the gyms are temporarily closed but don’t let this hinder your fitness progress! Continue to stay active with our outdoor Personal Training sessions or have a good sweat at home by accessing our Virtual Studio or online Personal Training sessions.
On top of supplying your body with nutritious food and supplements, getting sufficient sleep and exercise are other important ways to bolster your immune system.
Should there be any changes to your exercise routine on the day of your vaccine?
While researchers are still exploring the reasons behind the COVID-19 vaccine side-effects, the expert committee said people who have been vaccinated, particularly adolescents and men under 30 years old, should avoid exercise or strenuous physical activity for a week after any dose of the jab.
Carrying out light arm exercises such as wall push-ups, shoulder presses, and bicep curls before the vaccine might help to relieve pain and discomfort in the area you got the shot.
As much as we would love to encourage more people to stay active, for those who are suffering from chronic illnesses, do consult your doctor for advice on the exercises and intensity level suitable for you.
We’ll love to check in on your fitness progress so do tag us on your home workout routines via our Facebook and Instagram pages. As always, stay home and stay fit to ride through this together!
References:
1. gov.sg. 2021. What you should know about the COVID-19 vaccine. [online] Available at: https://www.gov.sg/article/what-you-should-know-about-the-covid-19-vaccine
2. World Economic Forum. 2021. Exercise makes you 50% more likely to have higher antibodies after a vaccine. [online] Available at: https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2021/04/exercise-boosts-immunity-vaccines-effective-study-glasgow-covid-coronavirus?utm_source=linkedin&utm_medium=social_scheduler&utm_term=Global+Health&utm_content=07/05/2021+11:00
3. The New York Times. 2020. After Recovery From the Coronavirus, Most People Carry Antibodies (Published 2020). [online] Available at: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/05/07/health/coronavirus-antibody-prevalence.html
4. Healthline. 2019. 8 Ways to Boost Your Immune System If You’re Over 65. [online] Available at: https://www.healthline.com/health/flu/boost-immune-system-over-65#3.-Get-active
5. Aubrey, S., 2021. Why exercising before getting a vaccine is a good idea. [online] The Sydney Morning Herald. Available at: https://www.smh.com.au/lifestyle/health-and-wellness/why-doing-exercise-before-you-have-your-vaccine-is-a-good-idea-20210415-p57jet.html
6. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 2021. Possible Side Effects After Getting a COVID-19 Vaccine. [online] Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/expect.html
