EGYM has developed Immunity Boost, a 30 minute strength training programme, supported by a pre-workout stretch routine and a cardiovascular cool down, specifically designed to strengthen the body’s defence against many types of infection, including Covid-19.

In response to significant scientific evidence proving a positive correlation between exercise and immunity, Immunity Boost has been specifically designed it increases immune defence without decreasing infection risk due to overtraining. 

“Boosting immunity and suppressing inflammation have been scientifically proven to improve an individual’s ability to fight infection. Long before Covid-19 became a global threat, we set about designing a scientific, evidence based exercise programme that would trigger these specific responses,” says Andreas Grabisch-Mikula, Data and Sports Scientist at EGYM.

The contraction of skeletal muscle releases myokines, hormone-like messenger substances that have a protective and rejuvenating effect on the immune system. The higher the intensity of the training the more myokines are released, Schnyder & Handschin (2015). However, science also suggests that, if the training period is too intense, the ‘open window’ effect is activated. This has a negative effect on immune function for a short period post training. It is therefore important that intensity and duration are monitored and controlled to ensure positive results. 

To maximise the training benefit, Immunity Boost provides the optimal intensity to promote the release of as many protective myokines as possible without activating this ‘open window effect’. 

Designed to be completed at least twice per week, the 12-week programme is split into four training phases which ensure that the user progresses at an effective, safe rate firing up immune responses whilst protecting against the negative effects of over training.