The vigorous daily tasks that may prolong your life

Health & Fitness
3 Sep 2025 • 8:44 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

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  • A new study indicates that just one minute of vigorous incidental activity each day can significantly reduce the risk of early death.
  • The research, led by Professor Emmanuel Stamatakis from the University of Sydney, tracked nearly 3,300 Americans who did not engage in regular structured exercise.
  • Participants who incorporated short bursts of vigorous activity, such as running up stairs or carrying heavy shopping, experienced a 38 per cent lower risk of dying over a six-year period.
  • Researchers noted that while beneficial, this brief activity should not replace the NHS-recommended 150 minutes of moderate or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise per week.
  • This study supports previous findings by Professor Stamatakis, who introduced the concept of Vigorous Intermittent Lifestyle Physical Activity (VILPA) and suggested its potential to reduce cancer risk.

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