More Exercise May Not Always Mean Better Heart Health: Research

by Vanya Sharma published on -

A recent study published in the Circulation journal revealed that extreme physical exercise can increase the risk of sudden heart attack or cardiovascular risk among unhealthy individuals. [1]

A young couple going for a run in the park with their pet dog

Everyone knows that running is a great way to get into shape, but it also can benefit almost every part of your body and lift your mood. Photo Credit: Shutterstock

High-intensity endurance activities, as compared to aerobic exercises, can cause atrial fibrillation or cardiac arrest. The study supported the cause and effect relationship between gradually increased physical exercise and decreased occurrence of heart ailments. Aerobic exercises such as swimming, walking, and running help you move your large muscles thereby promoting movement in a rhythmic and sustained manner.

Chair of the writing committee of the paper, Barry A. Franklin, commented on the research by saying, “Exercise is medicine, and there is no question that moderate to vigorous physical activity is beneficial to overall cardiovascular health. However, like medicine, it is possible to underdose and overdose on exercise – more is not always better and can lead to cardiac events, particularly when performed by inactive, unfit, individuals with known or undiagnosed heart disease.”

The aim of the study is to provide doctors and other health care professionals with proper information on how to advise patients on appropriating the right amount of time and energy to physical activity. The researchers involved in the study suggest building an exercise regimen from slow to moderate and then, maybe, vigorous, instead of taking it extensively from the first day itself. Franklin added, “It is important to start exercising – but go slow, even if you were an athlete in high school.”

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About the Author

Vanya Sharma is a writer at heart with interests in the health and nutrition domain and has experience in content creation, collaboration, and content strategy. Vanya has completed the “Introduction to Food and Health” certificate program from Stanford University, US. She aims to bring unbiased and helpful information to all those seeking to make their health and lifestyle a priority.

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