In the history of human evolution, the direction of our evolution has never been sedentary. Time after time, studies have shown that exercise has great benefits for the human body, including improving your immune system. Physical function declines as we age, and the immune system is no exception, and what we try to do is slow that decline as much as possible. How to slow down the decline of physical function? Cycling is a great way. Because the correct riding posture can keep the human body in a supported state during exercise, it has less impact on the musculoskeletal system. Of course, we pay attention to the balance of exercise (intensity/duration/frequency) and rest/recovery to maximize the benefits of exercise to strengthen the immune system. ”

FLORIDA – Professor James trains elite mountain bikers, but his insights apply to riders who can only exercise on weekends and other free time. He says the key is how to maintain balance: “Like all training, if you do it step by step, let The body will slowly adapt to the pressure of increased cycling mileage, and the effect will be better. However, if you are eager for success and over-exercise, recovery will slow down, and your immunity will decline to a certain extent, making it easier for bacteria and viruses Invade your body. However, bacteria and viruses cannot escape, so avoid contact with sick people while exercising.”

If you ride less in winter, how else can you boost your immunity?

Due to the short sunshine time, less good weather, and it is difficult to get rid of the care of bedding on weekends, cycling in winter can be said to be a big challenge. In addition to the aforementioned hygiene measures, Professor Florida-James said that in the end it is still Pay attention to “balance”. “You need to make sure you’re eating a balanced diet and matching your caloric intake to your expenditure, especially after a long ride,” he says. “Sleep is also very important, it’s a necessary step in the body’s active recovery, and it’s another step in staying fit and maintaining your athletic performance.” element.”

Another study from King’s College London and the University of Birmingham found that regular exercise can prevent the decline of the immune system and protect people from infection – although this research was carried out before the emergence of the new coronavirus.

The study, published in the journal Aging Cell, followed 125 long-distance cyclists — some of whom are now in their 60s — and found that their immune systems were the same as those of 20-year-olds.

Researchers believe that physical activity in old age can help people respond better to vaccines and thus better protect against infectious diseases such as the flu.