0
0
In a world where time constraints often hinder individuals from adhering to a daily exercise regimen, the revelation that exercising even once a week can yield significant health benefits comes as a welcome relief. Dr. Sudhir Kumar, a distinguished neurologist based in Hyderabad, India, recently shared insights on social media platform X.com, shedding light on a groundbreaking study advocating for the merits of weekly physical activity.
Affectionately referred to as ‘Hyderabaddoctor’ within the digital sphere, Dr. Sudhir Kumar conveyed a crucial message: “Too busy to exercise on a regular basis? Exercise only on weekends to derive similar mortality benefits.” This assertion, backed by a recent study published in the esteemed journal BMJ, underscores the importance of periodic physical activity in maintaining overall health and longevity.
The comprehensive study, conducted over approximately two decades and involving a cohort of more than 150,000 adults, examined the correlation between exercise frequency and mortality risk. Surprisingly, the findings unveiled that individuals engaging in physical activity once or twice a week exhibited a remarkable 15 percent reduction in mortality risk, a statistic parallel to those adhering to more frequent workout routines. However, it’s crucial to note that the benefits were discernible when exercise sessions spanned between 30 to 60 minutes.
“The results suggest that even busy adults could benefit from taking part in one or two sessions of exercise per week,” affirmed researchers from Universidad de los Andes, Colombia, who spearheaded the study.
Dr. Sudhir Kumar, whose professional tenure includes service at Apollo Hospital in Hyderabad, emphasized the importance of integrating regular exercise into one’s lifestyle. “Exercise as often as you can: exercising even once a week is better than not exercising. Ensure that the exercise session is of 30-60 minute duration,” he advised, echoing the sentiments of the study’s findings.
The World Health Organization (WHO) currently recommends a minimum of 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic physical activity spread across the week. However, this recent research challenges the notion that daily workouts are indispensable for reaping health benefits.
In an earlier discourse, Dr. Sudhir Kumar advocated for a holistic approach to fitness, advocating for a balanced combination of aerobic exercises and strength training. “It may be better to combine aerobic exercises (on 2-3 days a week), and strength training (on 2-3 days a week) (with one rest day per week), for optimum benefits,” he suggested, elucidating the multifaceted nature of a well-rounded exercise regimen.
In essence, this groundbreaking study, coupled with Dr. Sudhir Kumar’s expert insights, offers a beacon of hope for individuals grappling with time constraints. By acknowledging the efficacy of periodic exercise, individuals can embark on a journey towards enhanced health and vitality, one workout session at a time.
