Scientists Find Short Bursts of Movement Cut Heart Risks
Researchers from the University of Sydney report that brief bouts of high‑intensity activity can lower the chances of stroke and heart attack. The findings appear in Lancet Public Health.
A large UK study followed 25,241 adults aged 42 to 78 who wore wrist devices to monitor daily activity. Analysis showed that 97% of incidental movement happened in episodes under 10 minutes. These quick bursts were linked to a notable drop in cardiovascular risk, including heart attack and stroke, compared with longer, continuous exercise patterns. The study reinforces the idea that small, frequent movements throughout the day matter for heart health, even when they are not planned workouts. (Lancet Public Health)
Longer bursts showed greater benefits. Moving for one to three minutes lowered cardiovascular risk by about 29% more than a burst lasting less than a minute. The researchers suggest that the optimal share of daily movement falls around 15%, and that the intensity should be enough to quicken breathing and make steady conversation difficult. This breathing cue helped participants gauge exertion and ensure the activity was challenging enough to reap benefits. (Lancet Public Health)
The team noted that activity isn’t limited to formal exercise. Climbing stairs, cleaning floors, and other everyday tasks count as well. What matters is maintaining movement and pushing into mildly higher effort during those tasks. (Lancet Public Health)
In summarizing the results, the researchers stated that any movement is beneficial, but greater effort and longer durations yield stronger health gains. This means integrating more vigorous moments into daily routines can enhance heart and stroke protection over time. (Lancet Public Health)
Earlier studies have pointed out common mistakes that hinder relief from back pain. This line of research underscores a broader idea: staying consistently active, even with small, manageable efforts, supports long-term health across the body. (Lancet Public Health)