Scientists reveal how much exercise you really need to protect your heart
A new observational study suggests that current public health guidelines for exercise may be insufficient for optimal cardiovascular protection. Researchers found that 560 to 610 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous activity per week is associated with significantly lower risks of heart attack and stroke.
Why it matters
These findings challenge existing one-size-fits-all fitness recommendations and suggest that personalized activity targets based on individual fitness levels may be more effective.
Adults may need far more weekly exercise than current guidelines recommend to achieve a major reduction in the risk of heart attack and stroke, according to findings from an observational study published online in the British Journal of Sports Medicine .
The researchers found that substantial cardiovascular protection was associated with 560 to 610 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity each week. That amount is roughly 3 to 4 times higher than the current public health recommendation of at least 150 minutes per week.
Moderate-to-vigorous activities include brisk walking, running, and cycling.
The study also suggests that people with lower fitness levels may need slightly more exercise than highly fit individuals to receive similar cardiovascular benefits.
Based on the findings, the researchers argue that the current one-size-fits-all approach to exercise recommendations may need to be reconsidered. Instead, future guidance could include personalized activity targets based on a person's fitness level.
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