Nash, M. S., Nieman, D. C., Pedersen, B. K., Davis, J. M., Hoffman-Goetz, L., & Mackinnon, L. T. (1993). Exercise and immunology. Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, 25(5), Supplement abstract 123.

A review of the literature suggests that moderate exercise may reduce the incidence and severity of infection. This position has been bolstered by epidemiologic and laboratory studies which have demonstrated a linkage between moderate exercise and either heightened immune function or reduced disease incidence. However, that relationship is reversed with excessive exercise.

Implication. Illnesses in serious athletes in hard training may be due to excessive exercise stress reducing the body's ability to withstand infection and diseases.

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