The American College of Cardiology (ACC) has published a scientific statement in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology setting out guidance on prescribing exercise individually. The specialists consolidated clinical and observational data on the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease, infohub.kz reports.
The experts stress that the most noticeable reduction in mortality risk comes from moving away from a fully sedentary lifestyle toward even moderate activity. In other words, what matters most is abandoning physical inactivity itself, not hitting some "ideal" activity target.
According to the meta-analyses cited, walking about 7,000 steps a day is associated with a 47% lower risk of all-cause and cardiovascular mortality compared with 2,000 steps. The widespread notion that 10,000 steps is a mandatory norm is therefore not a strict requirement for heart health.
Cardiologists recommend that adults aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise per week. The experts also advise combining aerobic exercise with strength training at least twice a week to preserve muscle mass and lower blood pressure.
The authors of the statement note that exercise stress testing before starting activity is not required for most patients with asymptomatic or stable disease. They also remind the public that occasional workouts do not offset the harm of prolonged uninterrupted sitting.
Rolling out individualized activity plans and wearable devices is intended to make physical activity a standard part of cardiology care.