Question

Describe the three classical components of the open-window hypothesis, and evaluate whether each of these components supports the theory that prolonged strenuous exercise suppresses the immune system. (200 words)

Answer 1

According to open window hypothesis, the immune system of body is suppressed for 3-72 hrs after a strenuous exercise. This theory explains the relationship between immune system and exercise.

The basic concept underlying this concept is after a strenuous exercise, there will be injury in muscle. This causes invasion of neutrophils and monocytes in to the area . Despite the neutrophils entry, it ability to phagocyte Invaders will be reduced after exercise. In addition, salivary excretion and natural killer cell action is also reduced after strenuous exercise.

In a study on marathon runners conducted by Niemen, he found runners got respiratory infection within few days after marathon.He found that these immune responses are result of muscle soreness, which brings inflammatory response of body.

To avoid these problems, player should avoid overtraining and fatigue. Should be mentally motivated, should have adequate sleep and rest to body and avoid infection prone areas or avoid crowd