Exercise Physiology: Theory and Application to Fitness and Performance 9th Edition by Scott Powers, Edward Howley

Exercise 6

Explain how an acute bout of intense and prolonged (>90 minutes) exercise affects immune function and the risk of infection.

Step 1 of 3

Though regular exercise promotes a healthy immune system and reduces the risk of respiratory tract infections, the benefits are generally associated with moderate exercises only. Acute bout of prolonged exercise is shown to have negative effect on the immune system. People who perform high intensity exercises are often at an increased risk of infections, the thing that bothers athletes most.