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Are you pushing aside exercise because you're feeling like you want to jump right into a rigorous routine? An observational study published on August 8, 2018. Journal of the American Heart Association This suggests that light physical activity, combined with less sitting time, is related to higher cardiovascular health symptoms in older adults. Researchers analyzed health information from greater than 1,600 people aged 60 to 64 who underwent medical examinations and wore heart and physical activity monitors for five days. Participants' activity ranged from light intensity—comparable to stretching and playing golf—to moderately vigorous activity, comparable to brisk walking, dancing, and lawn mowing. The scientists also checked out the participants' blood markers for heart and blood vessel disease, including the inflammatory markers C-reactive protein and interleukin-6. Results: Compared to being sedentary, individuals with light to moderate activity levels had more favorable biomarker profiles. Takeaway: Lots of research shows that replacing sedentary time with any amount of physical activity is linked to higher health, so don't let more activity goals keep you from getting off the couch.
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