Martial Arts: The Cure for the Common Cold?

Between swine flu, the regular flu, and common cold season, it seems like now would be the opportune time to invest in makers of orange juice and chicken soup. Yes, it’s that time of year again, and while there is active debate among fitness experts on whether a person should exercise when sick, there are definitely studies that show that there can be benefits of doing at least some light activity when ill.  Last week, we reported that a study completed at the University of Florida revealed a significant improvement of glucose levels for type 2 diabetes patients who participated in regular tai chi classes, 5 days a week. While we don’t recommend hitting the karate dojo or participating in a capoeira roda when suffering from a fever, perhaps a little tai chi could help increase blood flow and relaxation when you begin to feel that all-too-familiar cold creeping up.

We’d love to hear some of the ways you use or have used martial arts to improve your overall health. And since we’re on the topic of health and healing – do you find exercise helps you stave off sickness?