Even a few minutes of movement throughout the day can save lives. An international team of scientists from Australia, the UK and the US has found that short, intense bursts of physical activity that occur naturally in everyday life significantly reduce the risk of death from any cause.
Such loads were called VILPA (vigorous intermittent lifestyle physical activity). The study was published in EatingWell.
The researchers analyzed data from more than 3,300 participants with an average age of 51 who did not exercise regularly. All wore accelerometers to measure activity.
The results were impressive:
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five short bursts of VILPA per day reduced the risk of premature death by 44%;
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about eight — by 54%;
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even movements lasting less than a minute several times a day reduced the risk by 42–47%.
Experts emphasize that even small movements have a huge impact. For example:
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taking the stairs instead of the elevator,
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walking fast while walking,
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short exercises at the desk,
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getting up and stretching throughout the day.
In addition to reducing the risk of death, such activities help normalize blood pressure, improve brain activity and creativity.
Nutritionist and trainer Katie Davidson, who reviewed the study, emphasizes:
"This is further confirmation that any movement matters. Even small bursts of activity can have a significant impact on health and longevity."
Scientists advise not to wait for a "convenient time for sports," but to weave short active activities into the daily rhythm of life.
