Exercise in moderation
What are the benefits of exercise?
Most people understand the value of regular exercise as a way of maintaining fitness and keeping weight down. Exercise also has the benefit of reducing the risks of developing high blood pressure, diabetic complications, strokes, heart disease and osteoporosis.
The importance of moderation
Studies have emphasised the value of moderate exercise, as opposed to over-strenuous activities which take participants almost to the point of exhaustion. The latter is not a good idea and will not prolong your life.
Heart health benefits for men
A further important benefit of exercise has also been discovered. Men who have a heart attack are far less likely to die as a result if they have been used to taking moderately vigorous exercise 2 or 3 times a week.
Naturally, it is best to prevent having a heart attack in the first place. As well as regular exercise, not smoking, controlling cholesterol levels and watching your weight and blood pressure will help reduce the risk.
Of those men unfortunate enough to suffer a heart attack, up to half will die within 28 days. This figure is halved for those who have been participating in regular exercise.
Last Reviewed: 14 February 2002
