February news update
In our continuous search for new developments in the field of physical activity research, KiActiv® is always striving to innovate and develop our programs. As we get more and more active, it is important to consider the literature in order to make internal adaptations and to highlight the ever-evolving health benefits of this activity, helping us to fully recognise the impact of increased activity on our health!
In order to help you gain a more comprehensive understanding of your physical and mental wellbeing, we have compiled some of the most interesting, cutting-edge research articles published this month.
- Brain Function: While many studies have focused on how high levels of activity may improve brain health in older individuals, less is known about these effects in young to middle-aged adults. This study researched 40 middle-aged adults, found that higher levels of activity and cardiorespiratory fitness are associated with improved brain structure and function. Concluding that physical activity may provide a low-risk, effective method of improving brain health in an early-to-mid-life stage. Click here to read more about the study.
- Alzheimer’s Disease: Analysis of 649,605 people with an average age of 61 found that those with the greatest fitness levels were 33% less likely to develop Alzheimer’s than their less fit counterparts. The author, Dr Edward Zamrini, from Washington VA Medical Centre commented, “One exciting finding of this study is that as people’s fitness improved, their risk of Alzheimer’s disease decreased-it was not an all-or-nothing proposition…”. Read more here.
- Diabetes: The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) has released new guidelines on physical activity in individuals with type 2 diabetes, highlighting the importance of every-day physical activity, not just exercise. The updated document puts an emphasis on all kinds of physical activity, and urges people with diabetes to reduce the amount of time they spend being sedentary. You can read the updated guidelines here.
- Cancer: Currently, little is known concerning the cancer burden as a result of physical inactivity. This study conducted by the American College of Sports Medicine, found by promoting physical activity through broad implementation of interventions could prevent many cancer cases. It is estimated that over 46,000 cancer cases annually in the US could be potentially avoided if people met the recommended 5 hours a week of moderate-intensity physical activity. You can read an overview of the study here.
- Strength Training: A meta-analysis conducted by the Tohoku University School of Medicine found that muscle-strengthening activities had the potential to decrease the risk of mortality and major non-communicable diseases including CVD, cancer and diabetes. Just 30-90 minutes of resistance training a week is enough to decrease the risk of premature death. To read the full article, click here.
At KiActiv® we always aim to provide our clients with the best advice based off the latest scientific research. We hope this insight into some recent studies can help you when it comes to physical activity and making choices to improve your health.
