Daily minute-long physical activity significantly boosts life expectancy, indeed.
The National Health Service (NHS) recommends that adults should aim for 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise or 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week. This includes lighter activities such as walking. However, a new study conducted by the University of Sydney has found that even a minute of daily vigorous activity can have significant health benefits, particularly for highly inactive and overweight individuals.
The study, which focused on 3,293 American adults who did no structured exercise, investigated vigorous-intensity activities such as running, cycling, and swimming. The group who did 1.1 minutes of vigorous activity per day lowered their risk of dying prematurely over the next six years by 38%.
Activities classed as 'vigorous' include running, hiking, stair climbing, skipping, tennis, fast-paced cycling, and swimming workouts. Short bursts of vigorous activity, even if they do not meet the recommended exercise guidelines, can still contribute to a healthy body.
Dr Hilary Jones, appearing on ITV's Lorraine, stated that even one minute of exercise can have health benefits, raising the heart rate, reducing unhealthy blood fats, and improving breathing. He added that for those new to exercise, it is recommended to start with a few minutes a day, build a routine, and consult a personal trainer and GP to ensure the exercise regime is tailored to individual needs and health.
It's important to note that while short bursts of vigorous activity can have health benefits, a balanced lifestyle, including regular exercise, a healthy diet, and avoiding harmful habits like smoking, is essential for optimal health.
Wrist-worn fitness trackers are effective at capturing mostly 'ambulatory' movement-based activities, including vigorous gardening and other activities, according to Professor Emmanuel Stamatakis from the University of Sydney. The study also investigated whether 'vigorous intermittent physical activity (VILPA) throughout the day could count towards proper physical activity.
A UK-based study published last year found that just 3.4 minutes of vigorous exercise could cut the risk of stroke and heart attacks by about 45% in women who didn't exercise regularly. The studies suggest that quick ways to improve health exist, even if structured exercise programs are not feasible or if one has a busy end to the year.
However, the studies did not include details about other aspects of the participants' lifestyles, such as smoking, drinking alcohol, genetics, or job type, which could also influence life expectancy. It's crucial to remember that while exercise is essential, a holistic approach to health and wellbeing is necessary for long-term benefits.
In conclusion, incorporating short bursts of vigorous activity into your daily routine could have significant health benefits, potentially increasing life expectancy by six years. However, a balanced lifestyle, including regular exercise, a healthy diet, and avoiding harmful habits, is essential for optimal health. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting a new exercise regimen.
