Weightlifting Effect on the Immune System

Emma | 03 - 18 - 2024
Is-weightlifting-good-for-the-immune-system

The immune system plays a vital role in protecting our body by fighting against infections, harmful substances, germs, and cell changes. The immune system is a complex network of tissues, cells, and special organs. It consists of two main parts: the innate and adaptive immune systems. The innate immune system is what you’re born with and the adaptive immune system is what you develop. Innate immunity acts as a barrier by blocking germs from entering our body and it also recognizes when certain invaders are foreign and dangerous whereas adaptive immunity develops as we grow. Adaptive immunity also develops when we immunize against them with vaccines. Exercise and the immune system are closely related to each other. There are many healthy ways to develop your immune system and one such best way is weight lifting.

Weight Lifting Exercise for Immune System

Many research suggests that exercise, especially strength training can boost the immune system. People often lose weight when they are sick with chronic infections and cancers. This process of losing weight is called cachexia. People suffering from cachexia can also lose T-cells. T.cells are a type of white blood cell and it’s one of the essential parts of the immune system. Researchers found that exercise can help cellular functions and multiply T-cells. It can also help the immune system to perform effectively by increasing blood flow and by reducing stress and inflammation. 

Exercise and Immune System

The immune system is not only influenced by genetics but also by factors like poor nutrition, stress, lack of sleep, and lack of exercise. Weightlifting has protective effects on the immune system. Not only physical benefits but there are also mental benefits of weight lifting. Here’s how! 

There are ____ Main Parts of the Immune System.
  • A. 2
  • B. 3
  • C. 4
  • D. 5
  • Physical activity helps to boost your immune system and also helps to flush out bacteria out of the airways and lungs. 
  • Weight lifting helps white blood cells (WBC) to perform effectively. WBC are immune system cells that help to fight against diseases. 
  • The rise in temperature after exercise might prevent bacteria from growing and it also helps to fight infections.  
  • Mental benefits of weightlifting- Stress is the basic cause of all illnesses. Weight lifting can improve your mood and slows down the release of stress hormones and so it protects you against illness.  
  • Strength training will give you a feeling of satisfaction and accomplishment that motivates you to be healthy. So you’ll avoid junk food and stick to eating healthy habits. 

Weightlifting For Strength

Researchers say an adult should perform at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week and that can include any type of physical activities like walking, yoga, or even gardening. Make sure you follow these to boost your immune system. 

  • Quality sleep 
  • A balanced diet and proper hydration 
  • Eat fruits and vegetables
  • Stop smoking 
  • Take low sugar 
  • Exercise regularly 

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