New Study Suggests Vigorous Exercise Offers Significantly Greater Health benefits, But Sustainability is key
london, UK – A new study is challenging conventional wisdom about exercise, suggesting that vigorous-intensity physical activity can be up to six times more effective than moderate-intensity exercise, like brisk walking, in preventing chronic illnesses – especially heart disease. However, researchers emphasize that the most crucial factor in reaping long-term health benefits is finding an exercise routine you can consistently maintain.
The research, led by Professor emmanuel Stamatakis, aims to broaden the options available to individuals seeking to improve their health through exercise. while vigorous activity offers a more efficient path to fitness,it isn’t suitable for everyone.
“The aim of this study is not to impose vigorous-intensity activity across all populations,” Professor Stamatakis explained. “Rather, it aims to provide people with more strings to their bow when creating an effective and enduring exercise routine for fending off chronic illnesses.”
The study highlights that short bursts of vigorous activity – such as climbing stairs or carrying heavy shopping - can be particularly beneficial for those with limited time. These activities can also serve as an introduction to more formal exercise. However, researchers caution that pushing individuals into high-intensity workouts they dislike can be counterproductive.
“The higher the intensity, the more discomfort comes with it,” Professor Stamatakis stated. “We know this discomfort is a reason why some people quit exercise - because they don’t enjoy it. This is especially true in the population we’re interested in, which is physically inactive people.”
for those who find vigorous activity unpleasant or impractical,moderate-intensity exercise remains a viable option,though it may require a greater time commitment. The study suggests even more time may need to be dedicated to moderate activity than previously believed to achieve comparable benefits.
Professor Stamatakis stresses the importance of individual preferences and circumstances. “If someone cannot do vigorous activity,or they can’t integrate it into their day to day routine for whatever reason,what is the point of prescribing and advocating vigorous intensity?” he asked. He cited the example of a sedentary older adult who enjoys leisurely walks with friends or grandchildren as a perfectly acceptable and beneficial form of exercise.
Ultimately, the researchers advocate for a personalized approach, offering a range of options to help individuals establish lasting habits.”The point here is to give people as many options as possible, hoping that one of them will be the option they can stick with. It’s all about establishing habits – not doing things once a week or once a month,” professor Stamatakis concluded.
Related: Experts say including more polyphenols in your diet can definitely help you live a longer, healthier life – and it’s not protein or fibre. https://www.independent.co.uk/health-and-fitness/polyphenols-benefits-and-anti-ageing-effects-b2831125.html
