What leisure fishing does to your heart: the opinion of a cardiologist

What leisure fishing does to your heart: the opinion of a cardiologist
Leisure fishing, often perceived as a simple relaxation activity, could have significant beneficial effects on heart health, especially in seniors. Recent studies highlight the positive impact of this practice on reducing cardiovascular risks.

Take out your fishing rod, wait patiently at the fish, launch a line at the edge of a pond or a river: this outdoor leisure could reduce the risks of heart attack or stroke among those over 60 % by almost 30 %.. To better understand the impact of soft daily activities, Swedish researchers have studied the effects of regular practices such as leisure fishing or manual work outside. Their observation: these moderate activities help to maintain the heart healthy, with very concrete results in seniors. Dr. Marc Salomon, cardiologist, gives some advice.

A gentle but effective activity for those over 60

Practicing physical activity every day is an essential lever to preserve your heart and arteries. In an aging population, promoting accessible leisure like fishing, in addition to gymnastics or cycling, could play a central role in the prevention of chronic diseases.

“”Any gentle activity that allows you to act on stress is a good activity to prevent cardiovascular disease“Explains Dr. Solomon.

Physical or sports activity: what difference?

According to WHO, any energy expenditure caused by muscle movement is considered a physical activity. This includes everyday tasks of everyday life, such as walking or cleaning. Conversely, a sporting activity involves a performance, competition or personal progression objective, such as running or swimming.

As part of fishing, Dr. Solomon insists on one point: “Sports fishing is very good. However, if you want to put your cane and wait, it is better for you to get up and walk a little every 30 minutes about 30 minutes. Do not take the opportunity to stay sedentary“.

In both cases, the body moves, and the heart benefits. The National Nutrition Health Program (PNNS) also recommends at least 30 minutes of physical activity per day for adults, whatever its form. A morning of fishing at the water’s edge can therefore contribute, too, to better heart health.