Exercise programs have lasting effects

August 5, 2004

A new review shows that interventions to improve exercise still have an effect three months after they end.
Around 70 per cent of Americans still do not get enough exercise to benefit their health. That is why there have been many programs to help people increase their level of physical activity in recent years.

A new review from the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality now reveals that these programs can change behavior - at least, for three months after they are ended. There have been few studies, so far, to show benefit beyond this - although it may well exist. The long-lasting effects were found with all kinds of interventions - short and long term and in a variety of settings.

The study also found especial benefit for exercise intervention for cancer survivors. Increased physical activity improved physical functioning and relieved anxiety and depression. This had a knock-on positive effect on quality of life. Therefore, it is worth persisting with various kinds of interventions to encourage people to increase their level of physical activity.

Source
Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality 3rd August 2004

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