Liang Z, Du S, Zhao S, et al. British Journal of Sports Medicine Published Online First: 19 May 2026. doi: 10.1136/bjsports-2025-111351. Open Access! Joint non-linear dose–response associations of device-measured physical activity and cardiorespiratory fitness with cardiovascular disease: a cohort and Mendelian randomisation study
Methods: This accelerometer-based prospective cohort study using the UK Biobank analyzed 17,088 participants. There were 1233 incident cardiovascular disease events which occurred over a median follow-up of 7.85 years.
Key findings:
- “Meeting the 150 min/week guideline yielded a modest ~8%–9% risk reduction across fitness levels, whereas achieving a >30% risk reduction required threefold to fourfold higher volumes (~560–610 min/week)”
- “Approximately 11.6% of participants, 1980 of 17,088, achieved at least 560 min per week, indicating that although such volumes are attainable, they represent a high behavioural threshold for most individuals”
- Limitations: the cohort is likely healthier and fitter than the general population, reflecting a healthy volunteer bias
My take: More moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) is associated with better outcomes. Current recommendations of 150 min/week offer benefits but more time is associated with optimal cardiovascular protection.
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