New research has revealed that engaging in between 3 to 4 minutes of intense and short physical activity throughout the day reduces the risk of early death for those who participate, compared to those who do not engage in any physical activity. The research relied on data from over 25,000 individuals in a study via the UK Biobank, with 56% of the participants being women and an average age of 62 years.
Researchers from the University of Sydney analyzed health data and lifestyle patterns of the participants over 7 years, during which participants were asked to wear fitness tracking devices. Despite this group not reporting any regular exercise, 89% of participants recorded what is known as intermittent vigorous physical activity, which typically lasts a minute or less, and includes brisk walking, uphill walking, or running to catch a train.
Participants recorded an average of 8 short bursts of activity each day, totaling less than 4 minutes. Data analysis showed that these short bursts were associated with a reduction in the risk of death from heart disease by up to 49%, and that they help improve cardiovascular fitness and lower mortality risk. The findings encourage those who are not fond of physical activity to dedicate short periods of physical activity throughout the day, averaging a few minutes, to enhance health and reduce the likelihood of early death.
