Timing of Exercise and Cardiovascular Health
New research from the University of Sydney suggests that evening exercise may have significant health benefits, particularly for cardiovascular health. A study of over 30,000 volunteers found that evening exercisers had the lowest risk of developing cardiovascular disease and of dying in general, even after accounting for factors like age or smoking history. This adds to the ongoing debate over whether physical activity can be more beneficial at certain times of the day, providing evidence that evening exercise might offer better heart and health benefits.
The Impact of Exercise on Brain Health
Discover the undeniable benefits of exercise on cognitive and mental well-being. Research shows how physical activity can lead to cellular changes in the brain, improving mood and cognition. Dr. Henriette van Praag’s groundbreaking finding on the growth of new brain cells in mature mice has influenced her personal approach to fitness, incorporating activities like CrossFit and running into her routine. The release of neurotransmitters during exercise plays a crucial role in attention, working memory, and executive functioning, with long-term engagement offering potential benefits for individuals at risk of neurodegenerative diseases.
Study Shows Long-Term Benefits of Exercise Habits in Youth
The University of Adelaide study reveals the long-term benefits of exercise habits in youth, emphasizing the importance of promoting physical activity among young people for better health outcomes. The research has significant implications for public health and policy-making, aligning with efforts to encourage participation in sports and physical activities, particularly among girls and women. As the study adds to a growing body of research on the role of exercise in maintaining overall well-being, it is hoped that these findings will inform policies and programs aimed at promoting physical activity and improving long-term health outcomes.
The Growing Concern of Sedentary Lifestyles in the Aging UK Population
In the UK, there is a growing concern about the sedentary lifestyle of the aging population, with almost 40% of people over 50 years old being less physically active. Cameron Johnson, an exercise professional at Healthy Options, emphasizes the importance of regular physical activity in maintaining overall health and preventing long-term health conditions. Research indicates that one third of individuals aged 18 to 74 fail to meet the recommended physical activity standards, and this number increases to over half of the population in the 75+ age group. With life expectancy on the rise, it is crucial to address the impact of carrying diseases and physical deterioration into later years.
Study Shows Physical Activity Reduces Risk of Chronic Pain
A recent Norwegian study found that physical activity significantly reduces the risk of chronic pain, with more active participants showing lower likelihood of developing widespread or severe pains. Even minimal physical activity showed a noticeable decrease in pain risk, with no apparent plateau in effectiveness as activity levels increased. The study did not specifically examine the risk of pain among the most active participants, indicating potential benefits of physical activity at intense levels. Further research is needed to explore potential genetic differences influencing susceptibility to pain.
Scientists Develop Swallowable Exercise Pill in Early Stages of Development
Scientists in the US claim to have developed a pill that mimics the health benefits of exercise. The drug, called SLU-PP-332, has shown promising results in improving muscle function and endurance in mice. If successful in humans, this could lead to therapeutics for diseases like neurodegenerative diseases and heart failure.
Strength Training Linked to Longer Life and Lower Heart Disease Risk in Women, Study Finds
A new study has found that women who engage in strength training exercises two to three days a week are more likely to live longer and have a lower risk of death from heart disease. The study, which included 400,000 people, revealed that only 1 in 5 women did regular weight training, but those who did experienced significant benefits, including a 30% reduction in cardiovascular mortality. The research, published in The Journal of the American College of Cardiology, also evaluated the differences in the effects of exercise between men and women, showing that women require less exercise than men to achieve similar gains in longevity.
Exercise Can Boost Creativity and Focus
Discover how a short bout of exercise can boost your creativity and focus, even if you’re not really into it. Experts explain why movement, not fitness, is the key to shaking loose your best ideas and solutions. Learn how aerobic activity can trigger structural changes in the brain that benefit cognition and creativity, and why divergent thinking seems to be most encouraged by physical activity.
Leisure-Time Physical Activity Beneficial for Stroke Prevention, Study Finds
A recent review published in the Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery & Psychiatry found that leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) can significantly reduce the risk of stroke. The study analyzed prospective cohort studies and identified three to five levels of LTPA that showed a reduction in stroke risk compared to no LTPA. The authors emphasized the importance of promoting physical activity to combat a sedentary lifestyle and encouraged individuals to strive for the best level of LTPA achievable based on their capabilities.
3,600 Steps a Day May Slash Heart Failure Risk
A recent study published in JAMA Cardiology found that women aged 60 and above can decrease their risk of heart failure by approximately 25 percent by walking 3,600 steps per day, equivalent to a little over 1.5 miles. Men, however, may need to take a few more steps to achieve the same benefit. The research emphasizes the significance of physical activity in maintaining a healthy lifestyle and its impact on heart health.