Sedentary lifestyle is on the increase in all societies and yet even the simplest activities of daily life such as DIY or gardeningprotect the elderly from cardiovascular and cerebral diseases.
While the health risks associated with sedentary lifestyle and lack of exercise are well established, the benefits of non-sporting activities of daily living are still poorly understood.
A new Swedish study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine sheds light on the benefits of these daily leisure activities.
The researchers analyzed medical data and assessed the cardiovascular events and death rates of 4,232 people over the age of 60 for 12 and a half years. Volunteers were asked to complete a specific questionnaire about their daily activities and the time they spent doing non-sporting activities such as crafts or gardening.
“A generally active daily life, regardless of whether or not you exercise regularly, is associated with cardiovascular health and longevity at these ages,” the researchers conclude. , gardening, and even picking mushrooms are healthier than those who spend a lot of time sitting.
Indeed, according to the analyzes of the study, the researchers state that “people with a high level of physical activity, apart from the exercise itself, were at risk of contracting cardiovascular disease (myocardial infarction). , stroke (Stroke)) 27% lower than in inactive people and a 30% reduced risk of death from all causes during the study period. “
These new conclusions support those of a recent British study on the real consequences of a sedentary lifestyle on health. Michael Mosley, Research Director at the University of Chester said, “The health benefits of standing are glaring. Indeed, active people live two years longer than sedentary people.
And that “playing sports has many health benefits, but it will not repair the damage caused by prolonged sitting. Our body needs to be stimulated and to produce muscular activity on a daily basis. This is why it is essential to make more active daily. “
