It’s well and truly winter in Brisbane and you don’t need a weather app to tell you it’s cold! With the drop in temperature comes the rise of all the usual suspects: colds, flus, lingering coughs, gastro bugs, and more. It feels like everyone knows someone who's unwell right now.
So, what role does exercise play when it comes to your immune system? Can your workouts actually help keep you healthy, or should you be resting when bugs are doing the rounds?
Let’s break it down.
How Exercise Supports Immune Health
Regular, moderate-intensity exercise has been shown to enhance immune function in several ways:
In short? Staying active can help you stay well, or at the very least, recover quicker and reduce the severity of illness.
When It’s Safe to Train — and When It’s Not
It’s important to listen to your body. Not every sniffle needs to keep you out of the gym, but pushing through when you shouldn’t can prolong illness or increase your risk of injury.
Here’s a simple guideline:
OK to Train If:
→ Stick to light movement like walking, mobility, easy cycling or reduced-weight strength training. Stay hydrated and prioritise recovery. And please stay clear of group classes if you’re unwell, share good vibes but not germs
Skip the Gym If:
→ Rest is training too. Give your body the energy it needs to recover. You’ll come back stronger and reduce the risk of passing anything on to your gym community.
A Final Word
Regular exercise is one of your best defences against the winter bug season, but knowing when to move and when to rest is just as important. If you’re not sure, err on the side of caution, chat to your coach, or take the extra day to recover.
And remember: hydration, sleep, good food, and regular movement are the real MVPs when it comes to staying well this winter.
