Physical Activity And COVID Outcomes

The Study

The association between physical activity and COVID outcomes was examined in a cohort of 194,191 COVID positive adults. Subjects were categorized into different fitness levels based on self-reported exercise habits at doctor’s visits. The results were very interesting:

 -When compared to subjects who were physically active 150 minutes per week or more, subject active less than 10 minutes per week had a 91% increased risk of COVID related hospitalization.

- When compared to subjects who were physically active 150 minutes per week or more, subject active less than 10 minutes per week had a 391% increased risk of dying from COVID.

American Journal of Preventive Medicine 2022 https://doi.org/10.1016/j.amepre.2022.10.007

Take Home Message

There are several potential mechanisms for the association between exercise and COVID outcomes seen in this investigation. Regular exercise decreases the risk of heart disease, stroke and diabetes, which are risk factors for adverse outcomes with COVID. Exercise also improves immune function and decreases inflammation. These could also explain the association.

Exercise is one of the best weapons to fight virtually every disease, including viruses such as COVID. Get moving and stay active.