Heart Beat: February 2012

If you can improve your physical fitness levels, even if you don’t lose weight, you can lower your death risk. A study published in the Dec. 5, 2011 issue of Circulation found that over time, improvements in fitness correlated to lower risks of heart disease-related and stroke-related causes of death, as well as all causes of death. The lower risks held true whether the individual maintained the same weight or even gained some weight. Researchers say the study illustrates the risks of inactivity and should help reassure individuals who are active, but have trouble losing weight, that their dedication to exercise is helping protect against cardiovascular complications.