Do you tend to get ill?

Stumoo

This is a very subjective observation, but I've noticed that since I've started training regularly in late 2010 (a typical week sees me run 4 times and go to the gym 3 times, with one full rest day) I've hardly gotten ill at all. I used to pick up infections that were floating around at about the usual rate; if everyone in the office or all my housemates were sick, I'd get it too. But now it either passes me by or I get very mild symptoms for a couple of days before improving. I might have had one nasty cold in the last 15 months when 3-4 would be normal.

This article provides some background on the effect of exercise on immune function: http://www.theglobeandmail.com/life/health/should-i-exercise-if-i-have-the-flu/article1377578/

My personal experience is that I since I've started exercising more, I get ill much less often. Just one more reason to keep training. What's your experience?

bfbooty

it'd be great if that's true I usually pick up everything, all kids been sick over last couple of weeks and I've not caught it yet!! I did catch a cold/flu a few weeks ago but it passed a lot quicker than usual (although I am still battling with a bit of congestion which is annoying)

I think healthy eating has a huge impact on your immune system too and I also think chili's help fight it only cos my husband eats an unreal amount of chili's and is never sick I've known him to have 1 or 2 minor colds in the 7 years we've been together I'm convinced it's the spices he uses mainly chili lol

hbrittingham

Yes, I seldom get sick anymore and if I do catch something like the nasty cold that went around our office which knocked everyone down for three weeks, I am only sick for a couple of days. And my symptoms are much less severe.

kbmnurse

Exercise keeps your immune system strong and able to fight those nasty germs that are everywhere. I am in the same boat. Rarely sick. Hope I don't jinx myself.