Why Are Cardiologists So Passionate About Exercise?

Exercise reduces risks like gestational diabetes, excessive weight gain, preeclampsia, and preterm labor. However, more research is needed to confirm whether it lowers the long-term risk of obesity or diabetes in offspring.

Movement is essential for motor development in early childhood. However, being overweight during this period can quadruple the risk of adolescent obesity and increase the likelihood of developing hypertension in adolescence and adulthood.

Staying active during childhood and adolescence is critical for preventing obesity, dyslipidemia, and hypertension in early adulthood. Unfortunately, many adolescents—particularly girls, youth with disabilities, those with obesity, and Hispanic youth—fall short of meeting physical activity guidelines in the United States.

While specific exercise recommendations for this age group are still under study, regular physical activity has been shown to lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure by 3-4 mmHg. It also reduces triglycerides, raises HDL, and stabilizes blood sugar levels, guarding against metabolic syndrome and atherosclerosis.

Hormonal changes and physiological shifts become more evident during this stage of life. Studies like ARIC and CARDIA have shown no racial differences in the benefits of physical activity for reducing CVD risk. Both men and women gain similar protective benefits against premature cardiovascular events.

A common claim during this stage is, "I exercise while working," which reflects the "Physical Activity Paradox." Unlike leisure-time physical activity, occupational activity often lacks comparable health benefits due to:

• Insufficient intensity and frequency
• Static postures and heavy lifting, which can raise blood pressure
• Lack of recovery periods
• Uncontrolled environmental factors (e.g., hydration, climate)
• Prolonged activity, which may increase inflammation

Intentional exercise is still essential for maintaining metabolic health and preventing cardiovascular disease.

Chronic conditions like osteoarthritis, diabetes, hypertension, and cancer are more prevalent with age. Cardiovascular aging also increases the risk of arrhythmias, arterial rigidity, and high blood pressure. For instance:

• Over 65% of people in this age group are hypertensive.
• 5-10% develop atrial fibrillation.
• 10% have moderate-to-severe valvular disease or heart failure.

Even simple activities like walking offer substantial benefits. A 2023 meta-analysis published in Circulation found that older adults (≥60 years) who walked 6,000-9,000 steps daily reduced their CVD risk by 40-50% compared to those who walked fewer than 2,000 steps. Similarly, the Cardiovascular Health Study reported that older adults walking at least 49 blocks weekly reduced their risk of coronary heart disease, stroke, and CVD by 36-47% compared to those walking fewer than 5 blocks.

What About Physical Limitations?
While mobility challenges or joint pain may limit exercise options, walking remains a valuable and accessible activity unless joint problems are severe. For those with significant joint pain or overweight, water-based exercises provide a safe and effective alternative,