Breaking sedentary habits: study reveals effective strategy to increase exercise in heart disease patients

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This study highlights the importance of incorporating incentives and reminders to promote physical activity in adults at risk for heart disease.

as it increases sedentary lifestyle, it will be important to find effective ways to motivate adults to prioritize physical activity to improve heart health. Recent research supported by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) provides promising insights for encouraging physical activity in individuals at risk for cardiovascular events. By examining the effects of daily reminders and various incentives on daily step counts, researchers discovered strategies to promote sustained activity levels over time. These findings not only highlight the importance of: Regular exercise for heart health but also provides practical ways to promote behavioral change in people at risk.

Main findings

After one year, participants who received daily reminders and incentives increased their daily step count by more than 1,500 steps. This improvement correlated with a 6% reduction in the risk of premature death and a 10% reduction in the risk of cardiovascular-related death. Combining daily reminders with rewards, such as monetary incentives or games, was most effective, and he observed lasting effects even 6 months after the incentives were stopped.

Research details

The study followed more than 1,000 adults at risk of major cardiovascular events for five years. Participants received a wearable fitness tracker and set a personalized step goal. They were randomly divided into groups that received daily reminders, financial incentives, game-like rewards, or a combination thereof. The intervention continued for 12 months, followed by a 6-month follow-up period, and all participants received no incentives.

result

Participants increased their daily step count by more than 1,500 steps, with the combined incentive group showing the highest increases. The gaming incentive group increased by 538 steps and the monetary incentive group increased by 492 steps. Those who received both incentives maintained their 576 step increases after six months.

what it means

Immediate benefits and rewards from moving can effectively motivate behavior change. Strategies such as daily reminders, financial incentives, and rewards like games can be implemented through exercise apps and support from family and friends. Health systems can use similar tactics to help patients increase their physical activity levels and improve heart health.

conclusion

This study highlights the importance of incorporating incentives and reminders to promote physical activity in adults at risk for heart disease. By utilizing these strategies, individuals and healthcare providers can work together to promote long-term heart health and well-being.