People who are physically active have a lower risk of CHD. To produce the maximum benefit the activity needs to be regular and aerobic. Aerobic activity involves using the large muscle groups in the arms, legs and back steadily and rhythmically so that breathing and heart rate are significantly increased.
Recent research from the World Health Organization highlighted the importance of physical inactivity as a major risk factor for CHD. The 2002 World Health Report estimated that around 3% of all disease burden in developed countries was caused by physical inactivity, and that over 20% of CHD and 10% of stroke in developed countries was due to physical inactivity (less than 2.5 hours per week moderate intensity activity or 1 hour per week vigorous activity).
