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Physical Fitness and COVID-19-Related Morbidity: An Overview

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Exercise and physical activity have been demonstrated to help reduce COVID-19-related morbidity in patients. Continue reading to know more.

Written by

Krupamol Joy

Medically reviewed by

Dr. Kaushal Bhavsar

Published At September 15, 2023
Reviewed AtSeptember 15, 2023

Introduction

Recent studies have shown a direct correlation between physical fitness and Covid-19-related morbidity. Those with weaker physical fitness were more likely to experience severe Covid-19 symptoms than those with higher levels of physical fitness. This is because those with weaker physical fitness are more likely to suffer from pre-existing conditions like obesity, heart disease, and diabetes, which can increase the risk of severe Covid-19 symptoms. Physical fitness is also linked to better immune system functioning, which can help the body ward off the virus and reduce the severity of symptoms.

What Functions Does Physical Activity Play in Reducing COVID-19-Related Morbidity?

The role of physical activity in reducing COVID-19-related morbidity is still being studied. However, there is some evidence that regular physical activity may help to reduce the severity of symptoms and the risk of complications from the virus. Additionally, physical activity can help to improve overall health and well-being, which may also aid in reducing the risk of developing serious illnesses from COVID-19.

There are many ways that people can incorporate physical activity into their everyday lives. Some simple ideas include taking a brisk walk outdoors, riding a bike, or doing household chores such as gardening or vacuuming. More strenuous activities such as running or playing tennis are also great options for getting exercise. It is important to find an activity to enjoy and can stick with on a regular basis. Just a few minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity each day can have significant health benefits.

What Effect Does Exercise Have on Mood Changes in Patients With COVID-19 Disease?

There are a number of investigations that suggest that physical activity imparts a positive effect on mood changes in patients with COVID-19 disease, which are listed below:

COVID-19-Related Fatigue, Pain, and Muscle Weakness:

  • It has been demonstrated that physical activities and exercise have been associated with better psychological and physical outcomes in alleviating fatigue, muscle weakness, pain, and related symptoms post-COVID infection.

COVID-19-Related Depression and Anxiety:

  • A study published found that patients who engaged in a high-to-moderate degree of physical exercise had significantly reduced levels of anxiety and depression compared to those who did not engage in any physical activity.

  • Other similar investigations concluded that patients who participated in a structured exercise program had notably reduced levels of depression and anxiety compared to those who did not participate in the exercise program.

COVID-19-Related Insomnia:

  • Evidence suggests that physical activity, especially those involving aerobic exercises, has been shown to increase the levels of endorphins in the body and raise the body temperature, which has been associated with better sleep outcomes.

However, it is crucial to emphasize that these are preliminary and more research is needed to confirm these findings.

Does Physical Activity Improve the Quality of Life in Patients With COVID-19 Disease?

COVID-19 has had a crucial impact on the quality of living for many people. However, there is evidence that physical activity can improve the quality of life for people who suffer from COVID-19 disease supported by various investigations as follows:

  • A study found that patients who participated in a 12-week exercise program had a significantly higher quality of living than those who did not participate in the program. The study also found that the benefits of exercise were greatest in those who had the most severe symptoms of COVID-19.

  • Another research established that moderate-intensity aerobic exercise was associated with better mental health outcomes in patients with COVID-19. The study found that those who exercised for 30 minutes per day for four weeks had significantly lower levels of mood changes than those who did not exercise.

  • There is also evidence that physical activity can help improve other aspects of health in patients with COVID-19 disease. Studies have shown that patients who participated in an eight-week exercise program had improved lung function and reduced inflammation.

These results suggest that physical activity can aid in improving the quality of life in patients with COVID-19 disease. However, more scientific evidence are needed to confirm these findings.

How to Maintain Physical Fitness After COVID-19?

Owing to the many benefits of physical activity and exercise, it is important to make it a part of the daily schedule. Following are a few methods that will help to remain physically fit:

1. Set Realistic Goals: It is always advised not to start with intense workouts. Start slow and gradually raise the intensity and frequency of the workouts.

2. Find an Activity to Go With: There are so many different ways to get active, so find one that one will enjoy and that will improve the probability of sticking with it.

3. Make It a Part of the Routine: Once an activity is started, make it a part of the daily or weekly routine so that it becomes second nature.

4. Get Support From Family and Friends: It can be tough to stay motivated by oneself, so enlist help from the social circle. Exercise with a friend or family member, or join an online fitness community for added support and accountability

Conclusion:

The outbreak of COVID-19 has resulted in a global pandemic with far-reaching consequences. Numerous studies have documented the relationship between physical fitness and morbidity related to various diseases, but a lack of information about the possibilities and benefits of physical activity in relation to COVID-19. Regular exercise such as walking for 30 minutes a day, jogging, weight training, and other physical activities can help to improve physical fitness and reduce the risk of severe COVID-19 symptoms.

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Dr. Kaushal Bhavsar
Dr. Kaushal Bhavsar

Pulmonology (Asthma Doctors)

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