Adherence
Moderate to moderately vigorous physical activity significantly reduces the risk of heart attacks in middle-aged men without pre-existing ischaemic heart disease, whereas vigorous activity may increase this risk.
For heart health, aim for moderate to moderately vigorous activity, such as brisk walking, cycling, or frequent recreational tasks. You do not need to engage in strenuous sports to gain significant protection against heart attacks. In fact, sticking to moderate levels may be safer and more effective than pushing into vigorous exertion, which was associated with higher risk in this group.
The benefits of physical activity were seen most consistently in men without pre-existing ischaemic heart disease and up to levels of moderately vigorous activity. Vigorously active men had higher rates of heart attack than men with moderate or moderately vigorous activity.
Why this rating
Large prospective cohort study (n=7735) with 8-year follow-up, though reliance on self-reported activity scores introduces potential measurement error.
Source
Physical activity and ischaemic heart disease in middle-aged British men.
A. G. Shaper et al. · Heart · 1991
DOI 10.1136/hrt.66.5.384
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