Novel coronavirus disease and exercise therapy in the post hospitalization period

Abstract

Novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is spreading at a rapid pace all around the world. It is similar to severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) as the virus family is the same- coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) that causes problems in the respiratory system. An individual experiences several changes in their lifestyle due to COVID-19. The primary damage of the virus is on the respiratory system and immune system. Long duration of hospital stay and immobilization can impact the general well-being of a person. Post hospitalization period is described when a person is discharged. During this period, mild symptoms are still present. Therefore, low intensity exercise program should be prescribed in the initial 2 weeks and moderate intensity exercise in the next 8 weeks. Moderate intensity exercises (40 min at 65%-75% maximum heart rate on alternate days for at least 10 days) has been found to be effective in young people. In conclusion, we recommend that high intensity exercises should not be performed immediately in the post hospitalization period. Exercises should be progressed gradually from mild intensity to moderate and then high. Dosage should be adjusted after recommendations from health care professionals when switching from low intensity to moderate and from moderate intensity to high intensity exercises.