Research

Mixed

Engaging in total physical activity of at least 4200 kJ/wk (approx. 1000 kcal/wk) reduces the risk of coronary heart disease by approximately 20% in middle-aged and older men, with the strongest risk reductions associated with vigorous-intensity activities.

To significantly lower your risk of heart disease, aim to burn at least 1,000 calories per week through physical activity. You don't need to run marathons; brisk walking, swimming, or yard work for about 30 minutes a day, most days of the week, is sufficient. If you can incorporate more vigorous sports, the benefit is even greater, but moderate activity alone is highly effective.

GoodSupportsHIGH confidence
Total physical activity and vigorous activities showed the strongest reductions in CHD risk... men expending $4200 kJ/wk had reduced CHD risk compared with men expending ,4200 kJ/wk.
Howard D. Sesso et al. · Circulation · 2000

Why this rating

Large cohort (n=12,516), long follow-up (1977-1993), multivariate adjustment for major risk factors, though reliance on self-reported activity introduces potential misclassification bias.

Source

Physical Activity and Coronary Heart Disease in Men

Howard D. Sesso et al. · Circulation · 2000

cohort · n=12516Cited 631×
Read the paper

This is one finding among thousands. Every one is graded and traced to its source, so you can see what the evidence actually supports. Browse the research →