This is a new result which contradicts those already existing. A new study conducted by researchers at Iowa State University has just shown that practicing “low to moderate intensity” physical activity for 90 minutes would increase the level of antibodies against Covid-19.
The participants practiced stationary cycling and brisk walking immediately after their injection of the serum. And the results, published in the journal Brain Behavior and Immunity show that those who have practiced physical activity have more antibodies in the four weeks following the injection than other people. “These results suggest that adults who exercise regularly may increase the antibody response to influenza or the Covid-19 vaccine by performing a single post-vaccination exercise session.“, develops the study.
No difference was found in side effects either. But this study comes to contradict other opinions previously given concerning the practice of sport after an injection. “To our knowledge, these results are the first to show that long-duration mild-to-moderate exercise improves antibody response in multiple vaccine formulations.“, concludes the study.
An alert against the risk of myocarditis after the injection
Nevertheless, at the beginning of February 2022, sports cardiologists warned of the risks of myocarditis (i.e. inflammation of part of the heart muscle or myocardium) after infection with Covid-19.
“Myocarditis is found in around 1 case of Covid in 10,000, that’s a lot, notes Dr. Alexandre Duparc, cardiologist at the University Hospital Center (CHU) in Toulouse.interviewed by our colleagues from The Dispatch. It also seems that myocarditis due to Covid-19 is more serious than that induced by other viruses, with more frequent complications.“
Faced with this risk, the French Society of Cardiology wanted to recall a simple measure: after vaccination or infection with the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus, it is preferable to refrain from playing sports for (at least) 7 days. “Do not exercise when you have a fever, body aches or joint pain is one of the ten golden rules to avoid cardiovascular accidents and myocarditis“says the specialist.
In detail, cardiologists recommendexclude “moderate to intense” physical activity (running, fitness, cycling, hiking… in a club or solo, for example) for at least 7 days after a positive test for Covid-19, even without symptoms. In case of palpitations, chest pain or shortness of breath, it is imperative to seek medical advice before resuming sporting activity.
This cautionary advice also applies in the post-vaccination period against Covid-19: thus, in November 2021, a large study carried out by Health Insurance and the ANSM had confirmed an increased risk of myocarditis, in particular in those under 30 years old vaccinated with Moderna.
Physical activity according to his condition
In summary, practicing physical activity after an infection or an injection against Covid-19 is common sense. If your condition allows it, you can practice physical activity and exert yourself in a reasonable way.
If, on the other hand, you are in a state of great fatigue, or with a peak of fever, the practice of any sport in general is strongly discouraged.
Sources:
- “Exercise after influenza or COVID-19 vaccination increases serum antibody without an increase in side effects”, Brain Behavior and Immunity
- “Covid-19 and sport: have you been sick or vaccinated recently? Take care of your heart!”, LaDepeche.frFebruary 2022
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