Short bursts of exercise reduce risks of cardiovascular disease and cancer, research shows

People who exercise for short periods of time are less likely to develop heart disease and cancer, a new study has identified.

Latest research findings have found that exercising for as little as 11 minutes per day can also combat early death.

These results strengthen the advice from public health officials that said: “Some exercise is better than none.”

During the study, the team of academics examined nearly 200 publications that looked at the health benefits of exercise. They assessed data from 30 million adults, all of whom had no pre-existing conditions.

They detected a link between regular exercise and a lower risk of heart disease, early death and cancer.

According to the researchers, one in 10 early deaths could have been avoided if all the population exercised for at least an hour and a quarter per week.

In 2019, nearly 18 million people around the globe died from heart disease – the top cause of death.

Meanwhile, approximately 9.5 million deaths in 2017 were caused by cancer, the study has reported.

People are advised by the NHS to take part in 2.5 hours of moderate intensity exercise each week, such as dancing, brisk walking or cycling.

The researchers said: “Our review supports the current UK recommendation of 2.5 hours of moderate-intensity exercise per week. However, health benefits can be gained from just an hour and a quarter per week.”