Light exercise also improves fitness, study finds

A new study by Finland’s UKK Institute shows that even low-intensity exercise can deliver measurable health and fitness benefits in as little as six weeks, potentially lowering the barrier for those hesitant to start physical activity.

Researchers at the health and exercise research centre found that moderate exercise—both in intensity and duration—can produce positive effects on cardiovascular endurance and overall health, according to exercise physiologist and doctoral researcher Olli-Pekka Nuuttila.

The study indicates that even relatively low-effort training can improve maximal oxygen uptake by an average of over 10 percent. Such findings may encourage individuals who avoid exercise or find starting difficult to adopt lighter forms of physical activity.

The UKK Institute, a Finnish expert organisation specialising in health and exercise research, conducted the study. Results were reported by Finnish news agency STT.