EVEN MODERATE EXERCISE PROLONGS LIFE. A UK-Sweden study has found that the risk of an early death can be significantly reduced through even light o moderately intense activity such as walking. Combining the results of existing international studies, researchers from the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Cambridge University and Sweden's Karolinska Institute, found that individuals who usually partook in minimal physical activity gained the greatest health benefits from light or moderate activity.
The study found that half an hour's moderately intense activity for five days per week reduced the risk of death by about 19%, when compared to no physical activity. When this level increased to seven hours per week, the risk was reduced by an average 24%.
Lead researcher, James Woodcock said "This research confirms that it is not just exercising hard that is good for you, but even moderate everyday activities can have major health benefits."
The study found that half an hour's moderately intense activity for five days per week reduced the risk of death by about 19%, when compared to no physical activity. When this level increased to seven hours per week, the risk was reduced by an average 24%.
Lead researcher, James Woodcock said "This research confirms that it is not just exercising hard that is good for you, but even moderate everyday activities can have major health benefits."