Physical Activity vs Sedentary Time in reducing mortality risk

A new study published in the journal Heart has found that moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) is more important than sedentary time in reducing mortality risk. The study, involved data from over 11,000 participants in four prospective cohort studies.

The researchers found that people who accumulated more than 12 hours of sedentary time per day had a higher risk of death, but only among those who accumulated less than 22 minutes of MVPA per day. Higher levels of MVPA were associated with a lower risk of death, regardless of sedentary time.

The researchers also found that the benefits of MVPA were even greater for people who accumulated more sedentary time. For example, people who accumulated 10 minutes of MVPA per day had a 28-55% lower risk of death than those who accumulated no MVPA, regardless of their sedentary time levels.

The researchers concluded that MVPA is more important than sedentary time in reducing mortality risk. They also recommended that adults should aim to accumulate at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity per week.

This study is good news for people who are looking to improve their health and reduce their risk of death. It shows that even a small amount of MVPA can have a big impact, and that it is important to focus on MVPA even if you are unable to reduce your sedentary time levels.

Reference: Sagelv EH, Hopstock LA, Morseth B, et al Device-measured physical activity, sedentary time, and risk of all-cause mortality: an individual participant data analysis of four prospective cohort studiesBritish Journal of Sports Medicine Published Online First: 24 October 2023. DOI: 10.1136/bjsports-2022-106568