Can Muscle Strength Predict the Severity of COVID-19

Strength Training May Reduce the Severity of COVID 19

We know that strength training has a positive impact on immune health. One strength training session can improve immune function for hours following the workout. But a recent study by the Journal of Cachexia, Sarcopenia, and Muscle indicates that greater muscle strength and muscle mass are related to shorter hospital stays in patients with moderate to severe COVID 19.

This is big news in the fight against COVID-19, especially since we know there are breakthrough cases and we are heading into the colder months of winter.

Strength Training Reduces Many Health Conditions Including COVID 19

The correlation of muscle strength to overall health makes sense since strength training reduces the development of chronic conditions, such as type 2 diabetes, and obesity. Type 2 Diabetes and obesity are co-factors increasing the risk of developing severe forms of COVID 19. In addition, muscle plays an essential role in response to stress to several different immunological reactions such as glucose regulation, resting metabolism, and the body’s immune response.

Strong Muscles Are An Indicator of Overall Health

In reducing the risk of developing chronic conditions and improving immune function, the muscle mass gained through strength training also plays a critical role in recovering from critical illness. More studies are needed, but there does seem to be a correlation between muscle health and the recovery of patients with moderate to severe COVID 19.

More research is necessary, but for now, it’s safe to say that strength training is a positive intervention for our immune health.

Additional Benefits of Strength Training

• Makes you stronger

• Burns calories efficiently

• Decreases abdominal fat

• It builds lean body mass and helps you appear thinner

• Reduces your risk of falls

• Lowers your risk of injury

• Improves heart health

• It helps you manage your blood sugar levels

• Promotes greater mobility

• Boosts your self-esteem

• Strengthens bones & improves bone density

• Boosts your mood

• Improves brain health

• Promotes better quality of life

This has me so motivated, how about you!?

Click HERE to schedule an IN-HOME or VIRTUAL STRENGTH TRAINING INTRO. I look forward to meeting you!

Resources:

14 Benefits of Strength Training

Muscle Strength and muscle mass as predictors of hospital length of stay in patients with moderate to severe COVID-19, a prospective observational study

CDC updates, expands list of people at risk of severe COVID-19 illness