The Role of Exercise in the CVD Prevention

Physical ActivityPhysical activity is widely recognized as a crucial factor in preventing cardiovascular diseasesCardiovascular diseases (CVD). The prevalence of insufficient physical activity is estimated at around 27.5% of the global population (more often in women), being considered as a major health issue in the twenty-first century. This chapter explores the mechanisms by which regular exerciseExercise contributes to cardiovascular health, including the reduction of risk factors such as hypertensionHypertension, obesityObesity, and dyslipidemiaDyslipidemia. It also examines the recommended types and amounts of physical activity that yield significant protective benefits against CVD. Ultimately, the chapter underscores the importance of physical activityPhysical activity as a cornerstone of cardiovascular prevention and public health initiatives. Scientific data confirm the role of physical activity in CVD prevention and show what kind of exercise has the effect on beneficial outcome, emphasizing the role of steps which are easily countable with the widely available smartwatches or phone applications. Recently published metanalysis proved that a median of approximately 4000 steps per day already reduces all-cause mortality, while an increase of 1000 steps is linked to a 15% reduction of all-cause mortality. Therefore, regular physical exercisePhysical exercise is universally acknowledged as a class I recommendation by major cardiovascular societies for preventing cardiovascular diseaseCardiovascular diseases.