For many years, adults have been encouraged to be physically active for at least 30 minutes a day in order to reduce the risk of disease.
For many people, this has been a clear message, but also a requirement that can be difficult to meet in a busy everyday life.
At the same time, health authorities have acknowledged that any form of movement is better than none.
New research has therefore focused on short, intensive bouts of activity.
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What the research shows
A British study published in Nature Medicine examined activity data from approximately 24,000 people aged 40 to 69.
The study shows that five to seven minutes of intensive physical activity per week is associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease and premature death.
Professor Jens Bangsbo of the University of Copenhagen emphasizes that these findings represent statistical associations.
Nevertheless, he finds the results striking, as the effect is observed with very little activity compared with previous recommendations.
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Changed his view
The results have led Jens Bangsbo to change his view on how much exercise is needed to achieve health benefits.
In this context, it would be ideal to introduce micro-workouts, which refer to short, intensive movements that can be easily incorporated into everyday life.
According to the research, even small efforts can make a difference, especially for those who are otherwise physically inactive.
Sources: TV 2, WHO, and Nature Medicine.
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