Exercise harder—not just longer—to reduce risk of disease and death, says study

A study of nearly 96,000 people published in the European Heart Journal reveals that just a few minutes of vigorous daily activity significantly reduces the risk of developing eight major diseases, including arthritis, heart disease, and dementia. Researchers compared overall activity levels with vigorous exercise intensity to assess disease risk, finding that exercise intensity matters more than duration alone. The findings suggest that people don't need hours at the gym—brief, high-intensity workouts provide substantial health benefits. This research has important implications for busy individuals seeking effective ways to protect their long-term health and prevent chronic conditions.