Exercise: is more better for you?

While it’s vital to start exercising gently, and build up steadily, there are different schools of thought regarding just how much effort you should aim to put into your work-out.

In a paper published in the journal Preventive Medicine, Dr Gary O’Donovan, exercise physiologist from the University of Exeter’s School of Sport and Health Sciences, found that most middle aged and older adults were not aware of the relationship between the intensity of exercise done and the degree of health benefits gained.

"Time and time again the largest and most robust studies have shown that vigorously active individuals live longer and enjoy a better quality of life than moderately active individuals and couch potatoes," says Dr O’Donovan.

The research team that produced the paper believes that 30 minutes of brisk walking a day may be enough to reduce the risk of breast cancer, but regular participation in vigorous exercise is probably needed to reduce the risk of prostate and colorectal cancers.

"Brisk walking offers some health benefits, but jogging, running and other vigorous activities offer maximal protection from disease," explains Dr O’Donovan.

"Sedentary adults should complete a six to twelve week programme of moderate exercise before considering a programme of vigorous exercise. Men older than 45 and women older than 55 should consult their GP before taking up vigorous exercise."