Norwegian Study Finds 30 Minutes of Weekly Intense Exercise Boosts Heart Health
Updated
Updated · HuffPost · May 25
Norwegian Study Finds 30 Minutes of Weekly Intense Exercise Boosts Heart Health
6 articles · Updated · HuffPost · May 25
Researchers at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology found that 30 minutes of high-intensity exercise a week can improve heart health, far below the standard 75 minutes of vigorous activity in U.S. guidelines.
The study suggests splitting that time across the week—such as 7.5 minutes four times weekly—because benefits like blood pressure and blood sugar control appear to last only one to two days after each session.
High-intensity exercise was defined as reaching at least 85% of maximum heart rate or becoming too breathless to talk comfortably; examples include running, spin classes and singles tennis.
Cardiologists not involved in the study said the findings support small, vigorous workouts as a meaningful starting point, but stressed that more exercise generally brings greater benefit and that inactive people or those with risk factors should seek medical advice first.
The broader takeaway is that the study does not replace existing exercise guidance, but reinforces that even short, regular activity is far better than doing nothing.
Can 30 minutes of weekly exercise truly 'turn back the clock' on a cellular level?
HIIT saves time, but could its intensity lead to faster burnout for those already stressed?
If exercise is as powerful as medicine, why isn't it prescribed and supported by standard healthcare?
Just 16 Minutes a Week: Norwegian Study Reveals High-Intensity Exercise Slashes Heart Disease Risk
Overview
Groundbreaking research from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology and the Trøndelag Health Study is changing how we think about exercise for heart health. The studies reveal that just a few minutes of intense exercise each week can have a major positive impact, challenging the belief that long workouts are necessary. High-intensity, short-duration workouts are surprisingly efficient at improving cardiovascular health and lowering the risk of early death. This new understanding highlights that the quality and intensity of exercise matter more than the total time spent, offering a more accessible way for people to stay healthy.