Exercising on a regular basis is vital to your overall health, but did you know that a few weekend workouts could be a powerful defense against heart disease and cancer? A growing number of studies have found that moderate-intensity physical activity, even if done only once or twice a week, can provide significant health benefits. Here’s what you need to know about the benefits of weekend workouts for your heart health and cancer risk:.

Benefits of Weekend Workouts for Heart Health

Heart disease is a leading cause of death worldwide, and regular physical activity can lower your risk. Even small amounts of exercise can be beneficial, and studies have shown that weekend-only workouts are better than no exercise at all.

Here are a few of the ways that weekend workouts can benefit your heart:.

Improves Cardiovascular Health:

Weekend workouts can lower your blood pressure and cholesterol, two of the biggest risk factors for heart disease.

According to a study published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), people who exercised on weekends had a 30% lower risk of developing high blood pressure than those who didn’t exercise at all.

Reduces Your Risk of Heart Attack:

Regular physical activity can help improve your heart’s strength, making it more resilient against heart attacks and other cardiovascular events.

Additionally, a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that people who exercised only on weekends had a 40% lower risk of developing heart disease than those who didn’t exercise at all.

Promotes Weight Loss:

Being overweight or obese is a major risk factor for heart disease. Weekend workouts can help you burn calories and lose weight, which can lower your risk of heart disease.

According to a study published in the Journal of Obesity, people who exercised on weekends had a 3.7% reduction in body weight compared to those who didn’t exercise at all.

Benefits of Weekend Workouts for Cancer Risk

Cancer is another leading cause of death worldwide, and regular physical activity can lower your risk. Even small amounts of exercise can be beneficial, and studies have shown that weekend-only workouts are better than no exercise at all.

Here are a few of the ways that weekend workouts can benefit your cancer risk:.

Reduces Your Risk of Colon Cancer:

Colon cancer is one of the most common types of cancer worldwide. According to a study published in JAMA Internal Medicine, people who exercised on weekends had a 30% lower risk of developing colon cancer than those who didn’t exercise at all.

Reduces Your Risk of Breast Cancer:

Breast cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in women.

According to a study published in the American Journal of Epidemiology, women who exercised on weekends had a 20% lower risk of developing breast cancer than those who didn’t exercise at all.

Improves Your Immune System:

Physical activity can improve your immune system and help your body fight off infections and diseases, including cancer.

According to a study published in the Journal of Supportive Oncology, regular physical activity can improve immune function in cancer patients and survivors.

How to Get Started with Weekend Workouts

If you’re not currently exercising regularly, starting a weekend workout routine can be a great way to improve your health. Here are a few tips to help you get started:.

Consult Your Doctor:

If you have any underlying health conditions, it’s important to speak to your doctor before starting any exercise program. This is especially true if you have a history of heart disease, cancer, or any other chronic condition.

Start Slow:

Don’t try to do too much too soon. Start with short workouts, such as a 30-minute walk or bike ride, and gradually increase the duration and intensity of your workouts over time.

Find an Activity You Enjoy:

If you don’t enjoy your workouts, you’ll be less likely to stick with them. Try different activities, such as hiking, swimming, or dancing, until you find something that you enjoy.

Make it a Habit:

Schedule your workouts on your calendar, just like you would any other important appointment. Consistency is key when it comes to reaping the health benefits of weekend workouts.

Conclusion

Weekend workouts may not seem like much, but they can be a powerful defense against heart disease and cancer.

Even small amounts of physical activity can provide significant health benefits, so it’s never too late to start incorporating exercise into your weekend routine. Whether you prefer hiking, swimming, or biking, finding an activity you enjoy is key to making your weekend workouts a habit that you’ll stick with for the long-term.