Which sport is best for preventing stroke?
Exercise plays an integral role in stroke prevention, thanks to its ability to improve risk factors such as blood pressure, obesity and cardiovascular health.
Stroke is one of the leading causes of death and disability worldwide.
Stroke prevention has become a public health priority, and exercise plays an important role in reducing the risk of this disease.
Scientific studies have shown that physical activity not only improves overall health but is also particularly effective in preventing strokes.
The role of sports in stroke prevention
Sports are great for the heart. Photo: Getty
A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted, causing damage to brain tissue.
Sports help reduce blood pressure
High blood pressure is one of the leading causes of stroke. According to a study published inHypertension, participating in sports activities such as walking, jogging, swimming and cycling can help lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure.
These studies show that people who exercise regularly have more stable blood pressure than those who are less active.
Another study byAmerican Heart Associationsays just 30 minutes of moderate exercise a day can reduce the risk of stroke by up to 27%.
Improve cardiovascular health
Physical activity benefits cardiovascular health by improving blood circulation and reducing the formation of blood clots, which are a direct cause of stroke.
A study in the UK shows that people who participate in sports regularly have stronger circulatory systems, helping to reduce the risk of blood vessel blockage.
Reduce obesity and cholesterol
Obesity and high cholesterol are two other risk factors for stroke. Exercise helps burn calories, reduce fat, and strengthen muscles, which can help control weight.
Research fromNational Institute of Healthshows that regular exercise helps reduce bad cholesterol (LDL) levels and increase good cholesterol (HDL), thereby helping to prevent blood vessel blockage.
Effective sport in preventing stroke
Jogging is one of the best sports to prevent stroke. Photo: Getty
Not all types of exercise are equally effective in reducing the risk of stroke. Aerobic exercise has been shown to have the greatest positive effect.
Brisk walking and jogging
Brisk walking and jogging are two forms of exercise that are easily accessible but highly effective. A study published inAmerican Journal of Exercise and Medicineshowed that people who walked or jogged at least five times a week had up to a 40% lower risk of stroke than those who were sedentary.
Cycling
Cycling is a great aerobic exercise for the heart. According to a study byEuropean Society of Sports Medicine, people who cycle regularly have healthier circulatory systems, thereby significantly reducing the risk of blood clots forming in the arteries, reducing the risk of stroke.
Swimming
Swimming is also an ideal sport to help train the whole body. According to a study onAmerican Journal of Sports MedicineSwimming not only improves cardiovascular health, but also improves breathing and blood circulation, thereby reducing the risk of stroke.
Yoga and light exercise
In addition to aerobic exercise, yoga and other forms of gentle exercise also offer benefits. A study onInternational Medical JournalYoga has been shown to reduce stress, control blood pressure, and improve sleep, all of which are important factors in reducing the risk of stroke.
Frequency and duration of exercise
Although sports have many benefits, it is necessary to follow a suitable exercise schedule.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), adults should engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity per week. This amount of activity can be broken down into 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week.
In addition, a combination of aerobic and strength training exercises is important to maintain overall health and reduce the risk of stroke.
Strength training improves blood circulation and mobility, thereby helping to reduce the risk of disease./.
