A new study presented at the AHA Scientific Sessions 2010(1) explored the impact of three years of daily exercise lessons on German 6th grade students. One group participated in daily school exercise lessons, while the control group participated in regular school sports, two hours per week. At baseline, the students underwent a physical examination, blood work analysis, a treadmill exercise test and other analyses to document the sport and leisure behavior of the children. Both groups were comparable in age, body mass index, and motor skills.

After three years, the blood pressure of the students in the intervention group (daily exercise) was significantly lower and the group demonstrated an increased cardiovascular capacity for exercise. Investigators concluded the results demonstrate that regular physical activity leads to sustained positive effects on the cardiovascular system in children, and concluded that primary prevention of cardiovascular disease by means of increased physical activity should begin in childhood.

(1) Walther, et al. Sustained Positive Cardiovascular Effects After Three Years Of Increased Physical Activity In School Children, AHA Scientific Sessions 2010 abstract.

Source:
World Heart Federation