Open AccessHigh intensity interval training (HIIT) as a viable alternative to induce the prevention of respiratory diseases: a point of view of exercise immunology during COVID-19 outbreak
Author(s) -
Carolina Cavalcante de Paula,
Sérgio Machado,
Gustavo De Conti Teixeira Costa,
Marcelo Magalhães Sales,
Thiago Gottgtroy Miranda,
Sílvio Roberto Barsanulfo,
Eric Murillo-Rodrı́guez,
Henning Budde,
Alberto Souza Sá Filho
Publication year - 2020
Publication title -
research, society and development
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
ISSN - 2525-3409
DOI - 10.33448/rsd-v9i10.9186
Subject(s) - immune system , high intensity interval training , medicine , acquired immune system , immunology , inflammation , outbreak , physiology , virology
The immune system's response against SARS-Cov-2 seems crucial to control viral infection, since this system is homeostatic, dynamic and promotes immunoprotection of the organism through the activation of the innate and adaptive immune system via activation of cellular and chemical complexes that recognize, neutralize, metabolize and eliminate heterologous substances, with or without tissue damage. An obesogenic microenvironment can further increase the risk of disease complications, and cause a more virulent viral strain and a more lethal virus. Moreover, physical inactivity as well as poor eating habits impairs the body's energy metabolism and immune cells due to low-grade chronic inflammation. Studies suggest that light to moderate exercise, as well as mild calorie restriction, as an effective approach to relieve obesity and therefore an interesting strategy to strengthen the immune response during the outbreak of COVID-19, while a vaccine is not developed. Some studies have been shown significant findings in favor of High intensity interval training (HIIT) protocols when compared to moderate intensity exercise, showing how immunological system responds to vigorous to high intensity training. However, HIIT has a lower cost of time, reducing the time/efficiency ratio, that is, a lower cost of time with similar or even better benefits to higher volume exercise programs. Let us not forget: "time is the most precious asset we have".