November 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.
- Steps: The magic number of 10,000 steps did not come from doctors or researchers, instead it is a completely arbitrary number that originates from a successful marketing campaign in the mid-1960’s. Research has found that 6,000 steps per day, or 150 minutes of any form of moderate activity is enough to lower your risk of cardiovascular disease and other health conditions. You can read more about what was said at the American Heart Association’s virtual Scientific Sessions conference 2021 here. You might also like our blog on the truth about steps.
- Healthy Living: If 150 minutes of moderate activity a week seems like it would be too challenging for you, you may be tempted to not get up and move at all. But that would be a mistake, because research shows that as little as 11 minutes a day of moderate-intensity physical activity can increase your lifespan. You can access the full study here.
- Physical activity & Alcohol: Researchers at Loughborough University have found that a 5-minute bout of moderate-intensity activity is enough to reduce cravings for alcohol. Students who are physically active were shown to be less likely to crave alcohol and, as a result, tend to feel more positive. This could mean that physical activity could be a useful tool to those looking to cut down their alcohol intake. You can read an overview of the study here.
- Long COVID: A recent study has found that targeted physical activity rehabilitation programmes can be beneficial to women suffering from long COVID. Physical activity can help to promote physical recovery and prevent the condition worsening, as well as reduce the risk of developing other related lung conditions. You can read more about the study here.
- Mental Health: People suffering mild depression should be offered a choice of exercise or therapy instead of antidepressants, according to new NHS guidance. The Covid-19 pandemic has had a severe impact on the nation’s mental health, and it has been proven that physical activity can have positive impacts on your mood and mental wellbeing, and should be offered ahead of medication. You can read about the new guidelines here.
