A recent study has found that high-paced exercise reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease more than moderate-intensity exercise.
Physical activity has long been associated with a lower association with heart conditions, but it was not until recently that researchers have been able to relate the type of exercise to the amount of risk.
Cambridge researchers tracked the physical activity levels of 88,000 middle-aged people in the United Kingdom. The subjects were observed for about 7 years with portable fitness devices. The subjects’ heart attack, stroke, and cardiovascular disease rates were recorded.
As predicted, the researchers found that less exercise correlates with increased risk. Interestingly, they also found that high-intensity exercise was associated with a significantly lower risk compared with moderate exercise, even among people with lower levels of daily physical activity.
When we exercise, our muscles receive oxygen better, which reduces the strain on our heart. Exercise also lowers blood pressure. Aerobic exercise, such as running, cycling, or swimming, is especially helpful in this regard.
Both increasing the total amount of exercise per week and increasing the intensity of your exercise routine could reduce your risk of heart attack and stroke.
Running, swimming, team sports, and jumping rope are examples of high-intensity exercise. Although any method of exercise is better than none, pilates, yoga, and walking are not as intense and are unlikely to have the same benefits for the heart.
It is recommended that adults be active every day, and that they perform 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity or 75 minutes of high-intensity activity at least every week.
Even if you prefer a more relaxed form of exercise, experts say there are ways to change your routine slightly to see cardiovascular benefits. For example, walking briskly instead of taking a leisurely stroll can be much better for your health.
UNIB offers courses in health education, such as the Master in Physical Activity: Sports Training and Management.
Sources:
How Higher Intensity Exercise Can Improve Your Heart Health
Exercise: How much do I need every day?
Physical Activity Volume, Intensity
