Regular exercise can not only help you stay in shape and increase your energy levels but can give your immune system a much-needed boost as well. Still, with most of us spending more time at home than ever before, getting enough exercise can be difficult.
At Carbon Health, we’re committed to helping you stay healthy. That’s why we’ve put together this list of three immune-system-boosting at-home workout ideas!
A little cardiovascular exercise can go a long way in strengthening your immune system while also getting your heart pumping. If you have an elliptical, treadmill, or exercise bike, getting your cardio workout in at home is simple. However, you don’t need any special equipment to do cardio at home. Simply taking brisk walks around your house a few times a day can get the job done; if you have stairs, mix in a few flights up and down the steps for an added cardio boost. Consider using an activity tracker (such as a FitBit) to track and reach a daily step goal, too. (Read “New Study Touts Benefits of Moderate-to-Vigorous Excercise”)
Resistance training can also boost your body’s immune response, so try incorporating a bit of strength training into your daily workouts. You don’t need any special equipment to strength-train at home. Focusing on bodyweight exercises like squats, lunges, and planks can be plenty effective. If you’re not opposed to investing in a small amount of equipment, however, consider picking up a set of dumbbells or resistance bands to add a little extra challenge to your at-home workouts.
(Before drastically changing your exercise routine, it’s wise to talk to a healthcare provider about your plans and health goals.)
Your body also needs a little recovery after each workout, so make sure you’re setting aside time for some basic stretching and/or yoga. This will help you get the most out of your workouts and further strengthen your immune system. The great thing about stretching and yoga is that you don’t need any special equipment or a lot of space to do it. Some of the best yoga poses to boost your immune system include:
These at-home workout ideas can help strengthen your immune system while also burning calories and improving your overall fitness. In addition to these workouts, there are some other basic steps you should be taking to protect your immune system. Make sure you’re staying plenty hydrated and that you’re eating a diet that’s rich in fruits and vegetables. If you smoke, now is a good time to quit. You should limit your alcohol consumption as well.
As difficult as it may seem, minimizing stress can also improve your body’s immune response. If you’re feeling stressed, try meditation, breathing exercises, or even seeing a therapist to help.
We hope these at-home workout ideas will be useful to you.
If you have questions about an exercise routine that will work well for you, talk to a Carbon Health healthcare provider today about your health goals.
