Short bursts of intense exercise may reduce heart risk

SYDNEY: Recent research from the University of Sydney reveals that short bursts of intense physical activity throughout the day, lasting just 1.5 to 4 minutes, can lower the risk of major cardiovascular events (MACE) such as heart attack, stroke, and heart failure. The groundbreaking study, published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, found that even small amounts of vigorous activity—incorporated into daily routines like taking the stairs or carrying groceries—can have significant health benefits, particularly for women.
The study analyzed data from over 103,000 adults, aged 61 on average, who wore activity trackers for a week. Results showed that women who engaged in 3.4 minutes of vigorous, incidental activity daily were 51% less likely to suffer a heart attack, 67% less likely to experience heart failure, and 45% less likely to develop any form of MACE. Even smaller amounts of activity, ranging from 1.2 to 1.6 minutes per day, resulted in a 40% reduction in the risk of heart failure and a 33% reduction in heart attack risk.
Dr. Emmanuel Stamatakis, the lead author of the study, emphasized the importance of promoting these short bursts of activity, known as Vigorous Intermittent Lifestyle Physical Activity (VILPA). VILPA, unlike structured exercise regimens, does not require significant time or preparation, making it a more accessible way for many people to integrate physical activity into their busy lives. This simple yet effective approach could play a vital role in combating the global health issue of physical inactivity, which contributes to millions of deaths annually.
The findings highlight that while VILPA alone isn't a solution to the broader problem of inactivity, it provides an easier entry point for individuals to develop a more active lifestyle. It also suggests that small but consistent efforts may ultimately lead to the establishment of regular exercise habits, benefiting overall cardiovascular health.