The influence of exercise on cardiovascular disease is now considered established. Thus, continuous physical activity leads to a protective effect against cardiovascular diseases, which remain the leading cause of death in advanced industrial societies.
Adequate physical activity has a particularly favorable influence on the probability of coronary heart disease occurrence – its protective effect is largely independent of other factors: Physically active people suffer fewer heart attacks not only because they usually smoke less, but in particular because of the exercise itself. The health effect of physical activity is at least as great as the health effect of not smoking.
Physical activity also has a protective effect on the risk of stroke. The positive effect is due to the fact that regular exercise improves the functional economy of the cardiovascular system. This in turn prevents arteriosclerosis and the development of high blood pressure.
Exercise helps coronary patients and the overweight
In addition, moderate endurance exercise in particular stimulates fat metabolism and can thus reduce obesity. The positive effects of moderate endurance training are largely independent of the age, sex, or social status of the person.
No top athletic performance is required to prevent cardiovascular diseases. Even a regular daily walk has an effective preventive function. In addition, studies have shown that coordinated sports and exercise programs have a positive effect on people who already suffer from cardiovascular disease.
For example, studies show that the mortality risk of heart attack patients can be significantly reduced with the help of exercise measures – thus lowering the probability of a new heart attack and further complications, and improving the general state of health. For this reason, participation in a so-called coronary exercise group is also recommended for those affected.
