Billie Jean King Shares Exactly What She Does When She Feels a Cold Coming on During the Holidays

It's safe to say tennis legend Billie Jean King knows a thing or two about staying healthy. King, 79, is the winner of 39 grand slam titles. What she may be most famous for, however, is winning a match against male player Bobby Riggs in the Battle of the Sexes in 1973.

At nearly 80, King shows few signs of slowing down. She still plays tennis a few times a week and lifts weights regularly. For her, getting sick has never really been an option—so she knows exactly what to do when she feels a cold coming on.

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Unfortunately, getting sick during the holidays happens more than any of us would like it to, whether it's because of the chilly weather or because family members pick something up during their travels.

Related: 4 Doctors Share the One Thing They Always Do At the Start of Cold and Flu Season

To nip any sickness in the bud, here's what King does.

“I get sleep and hydrate," King tells Parade. "I try to get to bed early the first couple of days when I'm sick, but it’s proven that when you keep moving it’s helpful for your body and overall health. So I try to get up and do some light movement even when I have a cold."

And, King adds, the best defense anyone has against getting sick is staying up to date on their vaccines. “I have Afib, and every year my cardiologist calls to ask if I got my flu shot," she tells Parade. "When the COVID booster became available, I started getting that as well. I think I’m up to above five now."

It's all about sleep and water—got that? We certainly don't mind that tip!

Next up: Amanda Kloots Shares Her #1 Tip for Staying Healthy During the Holiday

Plus, check out more 'How I Holiday' stories from celebs, creators and experts as they share their cherished family traditions, festive dishes, stay-healthy tips and maybe even a Bad Santa moment or two.