Study Shows Aerobic Exercise Leads to Fewer Hospital Stays

Krissy Vann | Host, All Things Fitness and Wellness

A new study from the University of Gothenburg has brought to light the health benefits of maintaining or enhancing aerobic fitness, with a notable emphasis on reducing future hospital admissions. This research, featured in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology, underscores the significant role of health clubs and gyms in public health.

The study involved 91,140 individuals who participated in two health profile assessments at their workplace's health service. These assessments measured various health factors, including aerobic fitness through bicycle fitness tests, weight, height, and blood pressure. The study then compared these results with hospital admission data over an average of seven years.

Participants who either maintained or improved their aerobic fitness experienced a decrease in hospitalizations for any reason, ranging from 7% to 11% less than those who saw a decline in fitness levels.

For participants with a history of hospitalization, those who preserved or enhanced their fitness saw a 14% lower rate of readmission.

There was a notable decrease in hospital admissions due to cardiovascular disease, ranging from 9% to 20%, among participants who maintained or improved their aerobic fitness.

The study shows that enhanced physical activity, particularly for those previously hospitalized, can significantly reduce healthcare costs and the strain on health systems. Emphasizing the role of health clubs and gyms, the research highlights how promoting fitness can decrease hospitalizations, especially from cardiovascular diseases, leading to broader public health benefits and cost savings.

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