September news update
Here at KiActiv®, we are constantly looking towards the latest research to innovate and progress our programmes. Being guided by the literature not only enables us to continue to adapt internally, but also helps us to highlight the ever-evolving benefits of everyday activity, ensuring that you can fully appreciate the positive impact that your increased activity is having on your health!
As a result, we have collated some of the most interesting, cutting-edge research pieces published this month to afford you a wider insight into everything from your general wellbeing and physical health, to your cognitive and mental health too.
- Calorie Burn: A recent study has found that intense exercise may not be as effective at burning calories as we think. Our bodies automatically compensate for at least a quarter of the calories expended during exercise, undermining efforts to lose weight by working out. This suggests that exercise/activity plans for weight loss should be tailored to the individual, taking into account their personal energy compensation. You can read the full article here.
- Weight loss: Physical activity has been shown to improve health independent of weight loss. Losing weight on its own doesn’t always lead to improved health; significantly cutting calories and yo-yo dieting are actually linked with negative health outcomes, and the assumption that you have to lose weight to be healthy is not necessarily correct. Improving fitness and physical activity levels significantly reduces the risk of certain diseases and conditions, even in the absence of weight loss. Click here to access the article
- Hypertension: New research has discovered that a healthy eating plan, weight loss and improved aerobic fitness can significantly reduce blood pressure and improve heart health in people with resistant hypertension – a condition in which blood pressure remains high despite the use of three or more blood pressure reducing medications. An overview of the clinical trial can be found here.
- Cancer: Breast cancer survivors who participated in a 12-week group programme were able to increase their physical activity levels and improve their abilities in completing everyday tasks. These means cancer survivors would be able to regain their strength and independence through physical activity, leading to an improved quality of life. To read the full article click here.
- Brain Health: An article has been published by the American Academy of Neurology which has found that gentle aerobic activity promotes improved brain health and functioning in adults at risk for cognitive decline. Activities such as exercise games e.g., Wii sports, yoga and Tai Chi stimulate the brain as well as the body, preventing cognitive decline. Find the full article here.
