Cardiovascular Disease and Exercise

Physical Activity and Cardiovascular Health, does it make a difference?

  • Lack of physical activity is a big risk factor for coronary heart disease.
  • The risk of coronary heart disease associated with physical inactivity ranges from 1.5 to 2.4, an increase in risk comparable with that of high cholesterol, high blood pressure and smoking.
  • Surveys show that over 24 percent of people 18 or older aren’t active at all.
  • People with lower incomes are more likely to be physically inactive.
  • South Asians have a greater risk of cardiovascular disease.
  • Even low-to-moderate intensity activities, when done for as little as 30 minutes a day, bring benefits. These activities include pleasure walking, climbing stairs, gardening, moderate-to-heavy housework, dancing and home exercise.
  • More vigorous aerobic activities, such as brisk walking, running, swimming, bicycling, roller skating and skipping are best for improving the fitness of the heart and lungs.

This all goes to prove that excercise is an all important event in our lives, even light exercise will bring great benefits in our quest for a healthier life.