Khaberni - A recent study found that spending just a few minutes moving daily could be enough to make a significant difference in heart health.
In the context of a modern lifestyle characterized by sitting and low activity, a team of researchers found that exercising for just five minutes twice a day can substantially improve cardiovascular fitness (CRF) in inactive individuals.
The study, based on an analysis of 11 trials involving 414 men and women of various ages and weight levels, showed that "short exercises" – light sessions lasting no more than five minutes, practiced twice daily for three days a week – enhanced the efficiency of the heart, lungs, and blood vessels in delivering oxygen to the muscles, a primary measure of circulatory system health and prevention of heart disease.
The results showed that these short exercises improved cardiovascular fitness by between 4.6% and 17%, although they did not cause a noticeable change in muscle strength or cholesterol levels. It was also noted that women made up about 70% of the participants, and the largest improvement in fitness was recorded among the age group between 19 and 44 years.
The exercises used varied between stair climbing and brisk walking among younger groups, and light leg exercises or Tai Chi – a Chinese sport that combines calm movements and regular breathing – for older adults.
In an article published in the British Medical Journal, researchers emphasized that incorporating these short exercises into the daily routine could help overcome common obstacles to exercising, such as lack of time and motivation, urging their inclusion in public health policies by encouraging short periods of movement throughout the day.
These findings are consistent with previous studies that found simple daily activities, like climbing stairs or carrying groceries, could reduce the risk of heart attacks in women by up to 50%, reinforcing the belief that a little daily movement can have a significant impact on heart health and longevity.
It is worth noting that the study was conducted in Australia, Canada, China, and the United Kingdom, and the exercise programs lasted between four and twelve weeks. While the researchers noted that the sample size is still limited, the results are an important step in proving that simple, regular physical activity can positively reflect on heart health.
