Scientists from the University of Sydney (USYD) have found that short periods of high-intensity physical activity reduce the risk of stroke and heart attack. The research was published in the journal Lancet Public Health.
25,241 British people aged 42 to 78 took part in the study. They were given wrist devices to track their activities. Data analysis showed that 97% of incidental physical activity occurred in episodes lasting less than 10 minutes. The presence of such bursts of activity was associated with a sharp reduction in the risk of heart attack and stroke.
Longer periods of activity were more beneficial: Moving for one to three minutes reduced cardiovascular risk by 29% more than a burst of activity of less than a minute. Scientists say the optimal total daily duration of such bursts of activity is 15%. The ideal intensity of the load can be monitored by breathing: it should become faster, making it difficult for the person to maintain a conversation.
As scientists note, activity may include not only doing special exercises, but also climbing stairs or washing the floors.
The scientists concluded: “The bottom line: Any activity is good for your health, but the more effort you put into these daily tasks and the longer you maintain movement, the more likely you are to reap the benefits.”
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Source: Gazeta
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