Summary: A landmark study using Fitbit data from over 6,000 Americans has revealed that even modest increases in physical activity can significantly reduce the risk of atrial fibrillation, the most common type of irregular heartbeat. The research shows that meeting recommended exercise guidelines could lower the risk by up to 60%, with objective tracking providing more reliable data than previous studies.
Journal: American Heart Association Scientific Sessions 2024, November 16, 2024 | Reading time: 4 minutes
Small Changes, Big Impact
Your daily walk or house cleaning routine might be doing more for your heart than you realize. New research shows that adding just one extra hour of physical activity per week could reduce your risk of developing atrial fibrillation by 11%.
“Our findings make clear that you do not need to start running marathons to help prevent atrial fibrillation and other forms of heart disease,” said Dr. Sean Heffron, the study’s senior author. “Just keeping moderately active can, over time, add up to major benefits for maintaining a healthy heart.”
Beyond Self-Reporting
This investigation stands out from previous studies by using actual Fitbit data rather than relying on participants’ memories of their activity levels. The research team analyzed information from more than 6,000 people across the United States who shared their Fitbit data through the National Institutes of Health’s All of Us program.
The results were striking: participants who achieved between 2.5 and 5 hours of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity weekly – the minimum recommended by the American Heart Association – showed a 60% lower risk of developing atrial fibrillation. Those who exercised more than 5 hours showed an even greater benefit, with a 65% reduction in risk.
Real-World Activity Tracking
“These results highlight the value of Fitbits and similar monitors in medical research,” explained study lead author Dr. Souptik Barua. “By offering an objective way to measure exercise for years at a time, these tools can provide deeper insight into how different patterns of activity can impact health.”
The study tracked participants’ activity for a full year to establish baseline patterns, then followed up for five more years to identify those who developed atrial fibrillation. This long-term approach provided a more comprehensive view of how regular physical activity affects heart health.
Glossary
- Atrial fibrillation: A condition where the heart’s upper chambers beat irregularly
- Moderate-to-vigorous physical activity: Exercise ranging from brisk walking to jogging
- Arrhythmia: Any irregular heartbeat pattern
- Baseline: Initial measurements used for comparison
Quiz
- How much can one extra hour of weekly exercise reduce atrial fibrillation risk?
Answer: 11% - What risk reduction was seen in people who exercised 2.5-5 hours weekly?
Answer: 60% - How long did researchers track participants’ baseline activity?
Answer: One year - How many participants were included in the study?
Answer: More than 6,000
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