Everyday physical activity for the heart
A new study from the American Heart Association (AHA) suggests achieving the recommended levels of physical activity is important for optimal cardiovascular health and can help reduce cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk. Through simply improving daily physical activity, older adults with heart disease, can experience heart and other health benefits, greater independence, and thus, quality of life, no matter their age
Physical activity is linked with cardiovascular mortality and is recommended for the prevention and treatment of other chronic diseases and risk factors for CVD such as Obesity, Depression, Type 2 Diabetes and some cancers. A cohort study involving 142,493 participants, was performed in the Netherlands between 2006 and 2018 and found that leisure time (not essential activities of daily living) moderate to vigorous intensity physical activity (MVPA) was associated with the most health benefits, compared to nonleisure and occupational (work related) MVPA.
At KiActiv® we recognise that fitting in time for movement is easier said than done, and that life sometimes gets in the way when you least expect it. Evidence from the AHA supports this view that physical activity fluctuates throughout life, suggesting that some life events and transitions can be associated with decreased physical activity and increased sedentary behaviour.
Luckily, every move you make matters, not just sports and exercise. Climbing stairs, making beds, vacuuming, doing the laundry, gardening, window cleaning, even putting up Christmas Decorations – all get the body moving. Structured exercise is just one of many types of physical activity that has independent health benefits. And let’s face it, not everyone likes exercise – in fact, it can be really daunting for many of us. Instead, encouraging everyday physical activity can not only better achieve healthy physical activity for older adults, but can also be more meaningful, motivational, and sustainable.
But when life does get in the way, there are many things you could do to help increase your physical activity just that little bit more, and at KiActiv® we help you find exactly what works for you, using your personalised everyday physical activity.
This could include:
- Walking around the shops to do your Christmas shopping instead of buying them online
- Putting on some music and dancing around the kitchen while you cook
- Walking to the post box to post your Christmas cards
- Finding more times for movement within your usual everyday routine by taking multiple Trips where you would usually take one, like when putting the clean laundry away
- Get up and move during the adverts in your favourite TV show.
Anything that gets your body moving can benefit your health!
KiActiv® establishes the use of “everyday” daily physical activity for the prevention and treatment of diseases, such as CVD. With KiActiv® you can learn how to make each move you make valuable and become your own expert on what is right for you to overcome any impact of life events or any transition that occurs. With this knowledge and understanding, you can manage your health and well-being forever.
