Engaging in physcially undemanding hobbies like gardening is nearly as important as exercise, according to a new study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, the BBC reported.
The study, conducted by Swedish researchers from the Swedish School of Sport and Health Sciences, analyzed the exercise patterns of different age groups, and found, as anticipated, that individuals over the age of 60 were less likely to exercise than younger groups. Researchers also found those over the age of 60 who exercised more regularly had better cardiovascular health than those who exercised less regularly -- another expected result.
Researchers then wanted to determine if the frequency of various hobbies such as home repairs, working on the car, mowing the lawn, etc. had any impact on cardiovascular health for groups that didn't exercise regularly. Though exercise was still the most effective measure to prevent heart attack and stroke, engaging in daily activities did have a positive impact on cardiovascular health. Among the group who didn't exercise regularly, the healthiest members were those who most often had something to do.
"A generally active daily life had important beneficial associations with cardiovascular health and longevity in older adults, which seemed to be regardless of regular exercise," the study concluded.
A daily schedule of activities, even if they demand little physical effort like planting a flower or fixing the car, reduced risk of a heart attack or stroke by 27 percent and death from either condition by 30 percent. Data was collected from over 4,000 participants and tracked over a 12-year period.
According to Dr. Tim Chico, avoiding the sedentary life and the act of sitting too frequently - and not necessarily the hobbies themselves - was the key to increased heart health. In fact, the study suggested that sitting for extended periods of time lowered metabolism.
"Although this study only examined people aged 60, it is reasonable to assume that the more active someone is throughout their life, the lower their risk of cardiovascular disease," Chico said. "The message I take from this study is simple. If you want to reduce your risk of heart disease, be more active. Don't sit down for long periods; get up on your feet and do something you enjoy that involves moving around."
Christopher Allen, Senior Cardiac Nurse at the British Heart Foundation said the physical nature of some hobbies is still important. The study hinted that less phyiscial activity alters the hormones produced by muscles.
"Being physically active is important in maintaining good heart health. But, as this study demonstrates, you don't need a gym membership to do that," he said. "As long as they make you feel warmer, breathe harder and make your heart beat faster, activities such as DIY and gardening count towards the 150 minutes of moderate-intensity [weekly] activity recommended for a healthy lifestyle."
