Mixed
Engaging in physical activity reduces all-cause and cardiovascular mortality risk in a graded, inverse manner, with a threshold of approximately 1,000 kcal/week required for significant benefit.
Aim for at least 1,000 calories of exercise per week (e.g., brisk walking, cycling, or gardening) to significantly lower your risk of dying from heart disease or other causes. You do not need to be an elite athlete; moderate intensity is sufficient. If you were sedentary in your youth, starting now still provides substantial protection, and maintaining activity throughout life is key.
This association is evident in apparently healthy individuals, patients with hypertension, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and cardiovascular disease, regardless of body weight... an exercise volume threshold defined at caloric expenditure of approximately 1,000 Kcal per week appears to be necessary for significant reduction in mortality risk.
Why this rating
Based on large epidemiologic studies, landmark cohorts (Harvard Alumni, ACLS), and consistent findings across diverse populations.
Source
Physical Activity, Health Benefits, and Mortality Risk
Peter Kokkinos · ISRN Cardiology · 2012
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