A study shows that physical activity during leisure time, but not at work, is linked to a reduced risk of heart problems.
We already know that exercise is beneficial for the heart. What has been less clear is what kind of physical activity is best.

Researchers in Ulm, Germany, have been investigating whether the context of physical activity matters. They studied a group of 312 people aged between 40 and 68 with heart disease, to determine levels of physical activity during leisure time and in the workplace. They were compared to a group of 479 healthy people. This revealed that leisure activity, but not workplace activity, can reduce your risk of heart disease.

Those spending less than an hour a week of physical activity during their free time were 15 per cent less likely to develop heart problems compared to those who took no activity. Those spending between one and two hours in physical activity had a 40 per cent reduced risk and those who spent more than two hours had a 61 per cent reduced risk.
The study is interesting in highlighting the importance of the leisure context for physical activity. It suggests that people should do more than just rest during their time off - they should get moving too!