Samantha Ruth Prabhu, who has been healing post myositis - an autoimmune condition diagnosis, recently shared a glimpse of weight training on her Instagram Stories. "On good days," said Samantha, who can be seen picking up a weighted dumbbell in the gym. Taking a cue, we decided to ask how weight training helps people with autoimmune conditions. Almost everyone benefits from the protection and stability that stronger muscles and bones can give. "And people with autoimmune conditions are especially in need of a form of exercise that improves their function without wearing out their joints or leaving them exhausted," said Dr Ranga Santosh Kumar, consultant general physician and diabetologist, Yashoda Hospitals, Hyderabad. Concurring, fitness expert Garima Goyal said that it may also contribute to a stronger immune system and better mood. "Weight training can be beneficial for people with autoimmune conditions as it helps improve overall strength, joint stability, and mobility," Goyal said. Muscle strengthening exercise lowers inflammation and improves immune function by causing muscles to release special signaling molecules called myokines. "These myokines exert powerful anti-inflammatory effects. Systemic inflammation is associated with a deficiency of the myokine interleukin-10 (Il-10) which is released by muscle during exercise," explained Dr Kumar. According to him, these anti-inflammatory effects can be seen throughout all the organ systems of the body, beyond just the muscles. Weight training offers several potential benefits for individuals with autoimmune conditions 1. Strength and joint stability - Regular weight training helps build muscle strength, enhancing overall joint stability. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals with autoimmune conditions that may affect the musculoskeletal system, mentioned Goyal. 2. Bone density - Weight-bearing exercises, including weight training, can contribute to increased bone density. This is important for individuals with autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, which may affect bone health. 3. Immune system modulation - Exercise has been associated with positive effects on the immune system. While the relationship is complex, moderate-intensity exercise may contribute to a well-regulated immune response. However, intense exercise might have the opposite effect, so it's crucial to find the right balance. 4. Mood and well-being - Regular physical activity, including weight training, can positively impact mood and reduce stress. Managing stress is essential for individuals with autoimmune conditions, as stress can sometimes exacerbate symptoms. 5. Metabolic health - Weight training can contribute to improved metabolic health by promoting muscle development and increasing metabolism. This can be beneficial for those with autoimmune conditions, as some may be at a higher risk of metabolic issues, said Goyal. 6. Pain management - Strengthening muscles around affected joints may provide better support, potentially reducing pain associated with autoimmune conditions like arthritis, said Goyal. Autoimmune diseases are extremely complex problems, and nothing can take the place of a qualified medical care team in their management. "But low-force, controlled, safe strength training can play an important role in keeping the body strong, preventing metabolic dysfunction, reducing body fat, and lowering systemic inflammation," said Dr Kumar.
