Preventing coronary heart disease: the role of physical activity.

Over the past 50 years or so, many epidemiologic studies have examined the association between physical activity or physical fitness and coronary heart disease (CHD) risk. Their findings have been consistent, showing that physically active or fit men and women experience lower CHD risk than those who are sedentary or unfit. On average, active patients have half the risk of sedentary patients. Data regarding the optimal amount, intensity, and duration of physical activity required to decrease CHD risk have been less clear. It appears that following recent recommendations (at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity such as brisk walking on most days) is sufficient.