Study says engaging in an active lifestyle approach improves health outcomes

New study led by Oregon State University states that the health benefits of small amounts of activity can be a good for a person as longer bouts of exercise achieved by a trip to the gym.

The findings of this study, described these small amounts as one-and-two minute increments that adds up to 30 minutes a day.

About more than 6,000 American adults from across the nation participated in the study showed that an active lifestyle approach, as opposed to the structured exercise may be as good for improving health outcomes.

This includes, preventing metabolic syndrome, high blood pressure and high cholesterol.  

Paul Loprinzi, Assistant Professor at Bellarmine University and formal doctoral student at Oregon State said, “Our results suggest that engaging in an active lifestyle approach, compared to a structured exercise approach, may be just as beneficial in   improving various health outcomes.”  Mr. Paul also said, “We encourage people to seek out opportunities to be active when the choice is available. For example, rather than sitting while talking on the phone, use this opportunity to get in some activity by pacing around while talking.

The study participants wore accelerometers, an objective tool to measure physical activity. Positive results in blood pressure, cholesterol, metabolic syndrome and waist circumference were seen in the “short bouts” group.

The participants in the short bouts group who met physical activity guidelines had an 89% chance of not having metabolic syndrome.

Besides, those meeting guidelines in the structured exercise group had an 87% chance.  For the true health benefits, the team highlights the need for people to seek out opportunities to be physically active.

“In our society, you will always be presented with things that entice you to sit or be less active because of technology, like using a leaf blower instead of a rake,” Cardinal said. He also adds, “Making physical activity a way of life is more cost-effective than an expensive gym membership. You may be more likely to stick with it, and over the long term, you’ll be healthier, more mobile and just feel better all around.”