Fitness: a flu buster

With all the recent reports about bird flu and other viruses hell-bent on ruining our holidays, now more than ever is the time to maintain or increase your exercise routine no matter how much holiday shopping you have left to do! And no, power shopping does not count as aerobic exercise.

FACT: Those who exercise regularly are less likely to catch a cold or become very weak from one. People who exercise frequently experience fewer symptoms and faster recovery from colds.

Even during moderate exercise, various immune cells circulate rapidly through the body and are better able to kill bacteria and viruses. After the exercise session ends, the immune system remains elevated for a few hours before returning to normal levels.

In other words, every time you take a brisk walk, your immune system gets a boost that should increase your chances of fighting off cold viruses in the long run. The same concept holds true for kids, which is another great excuse to turn off your video game system and get them moving.

Some of the best reasons to incorporate regular exercise into your life is that you will feel better, enjoy life more, and reduce the frequency of common colds. Since you’ll spend less time sick, you’ll have more time to enjoy work and play. And we modern moms know how precious time is. And, yes, you will look great too!