Brisk walks cut risk of death while obese people who get fit less likely to have fatal heart attack
The NHS recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity, such as cycling or walking, every week
BRISK walks or bike rides can almost halve the risk of a fatal heart attack, research suggests.
Obese people and those with high blood pressure can cut it even further by getting moderately fit, it claims.
Researchers monitored 55,000 US participants over a 14-year period.
They found the moderately or highly fit had a 44-48 per cent slimmer risk of premature death than those with lower fitness levels.
Exercise benefits were even greater for the obese or those with hypertension, with the danger falling by between 58 and 72 per cent.
The NHS recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity, such as cycling or walking, every week or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise, such as running or tennis.
It also suggests additional strength exercises twice a week which work all major muscles.
Prof David Pavon from the University of Cadiz, Spain, said: “It’s necessary to encourage the population to entrust professional advice on physical activity and exercise, to improve their physical fitness in a safe and progressive way.”