High 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

Henning Budde,Carolina Cavalcante De Paula,Marcelo Magalhães Sales,Silvio Roberto Barsanulfo,Thiago Gottgtroy Miranda,Eric Murillo-Rodriguez,Sergio Machado,Gustavo De Conti Teixeira Costa,Alberto Souza Sá Filho

doi:10.33448/rsd-v9i10.9186

Abstract

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".

Highlights

Studies suggest that light to moderate exercise, as well as mild calorie restriction, as an effective approach to relieve obesity and 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
In 2020, the coronavirus pandemic was officially declared by the World Health Organization (WHO), which by scientific definition was called Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)

Summary

Introduction

In 2020, the coronavirus pandemic was officially declared by the World Health Organization (WHO), which by scientific definition was called Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The incubation time for COVID-19 viral infection varies from 5.1 to 11.5 days, and can present mild to severe symptoms, mainly affecting the elderly and individuals with preexisting chronic medical conditions (Horiguchi et al, 2018; Luzi & Radaelli, 2020). Patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) who have difficulty breathing due to the blockage of airflow, similar to that observed in SARS-CoV-2, frequently present overweight or obesity (James et al, 2018), and physical exercise can reduce cardiometabolic risk and future mortality assisting in the treatment of COPD (James et al, 2018)

Methodology

Exercise Approach and Immune Responses

Final Considerations