The central role of mitochondrial fitness on antiviral defenses: An advocacy for physical activity during the COVID-19 pandemic

We conclude that a high mitochondrial - and related cardiorespiratory - fitness should be considered as protective factors for viral infections, including COVID-19.

This assumption is corroborated by reduced mitochondrial fitness in many established risk factors of COVID-19, like age, various chronic diseases or obesity.

We argue for regular analysis of the cardiorespiratory fitness of COVID-19 patients and the promotion of physical activity – with all its associated health benefits – as preventive measures against viral infection.


Low cardiorespiratory and mitochondrial fitness as risk factors in viral infections: implications for COVID-19