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Putting the 2008 Physical Activity Guidelines Into Practice to Prevent Cardiovascular Disease

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Abstract

In 2008, the federal government of the United States issued its first-ever physical activity guidelines for Americans. These guidelines were based on a large body of scientific evidence, including evidence showing that physical activity can reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular disease. The guidelines encourage any amount of physical activity, and ideally encourage 150 min/wk of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 min/wk of vigorous-intensity physical activity, or the equivalent in moderate plus vigorous activities. Physical activity can be accumulated in bouts of at least 10 min in duration to count toward the total. Amounts of physical activity exceeding the target are associated with additional risk reductions in cardiovascular disease. Although there are risks associated with physical activity, primarily musculoskeletal injuries, the benefits of physical activity clearly outweigh the risks. To minimize these risks, a “start low and go slow” approach is recommended. Physical activity is indeed a “best buy” for public health.

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Disclosure

Dr. Lee is a consultant and a member of the scientific advisory board for Virgin HealthMiles.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 900 Commonwealth Avenue East, Boston, MA, 02215, USA

    I-Min Lee

  2. Department of Epidemiology, Harvard School of Public Health, 677 Hungtington Avenue, Boston, MA, 02215, USA

    I-Min Lee

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Correspondence to I-Min Lee.

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Lee, IM. Putting the 2008 Physical Activity Guidelines Into Practice to Prevent Cardiovascular Disease. Curr Cardio Risk Rep 4, 277–283 (2010). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12170-010-0105-9

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s12170-010-0105-9

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