Dangers of over-exercising exaggerated

Research suggesting that too much exercise can damage the heart does not apply to the vast majority of Australians and is not a reason to stop being active, according to the National Heart Foundation of Australia.
A study published in the June issue of Mayo Clinic Proceedings found that training for, and competing in, extreme endurance exercise such as marathons and iron man distance triathlons may cause structural changes to the heart and large arteries.
Heart Foundation Clinical Issues Director Dr Robert Grenfell explains "this research suggests that extreme levels of exercise can cause short term changes in some heart functions, all of which return to normal within a week.
"Over months to years of repetitive injury, this process can cause scarring of the heart in some people, which in turn has the potential to cause abnormal heart rhythms.
"The fact is that this does not apply to the vast majority of Australians for whom under-exercising is a much bigger problem ï¾ more than a third of Australians aged 15 and over do very little or no exercise at all.
"Regular physical activity is good for your heart and can help control other risk factors such as high blood pressure and being overweight.
The Heart Foundation recommends including at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity, such as brisk walking, on most if not all days of the week.
Dr Grenfell added "if you're looking for motivation to be more active, there is still time to join the free, six week Healthy Heart Challenge," Dr Grenfell said.
"Register online at goredforwomen.org.au and pick a goal that suits you ï¾ we'll provide hints and tips to help you achieve it."
The Heart Foundation emphasise that being active on a regular basis will help Australians:
ï¾ Live longer
ï¾ Be less likely to have a heart attack
ï¾ Feel more energetic
ï¾ Manage their weight better
ï¾ Have a healthy blood cholesterol level
ï¾ Have lower blood pressure
ï¾ Have stronger bones and muscles
ï¾ Feel more confident, happy, relaxed and able to sleep better
For heart health information 1300 362 787.

http://www.heartfoundation.org.au