For Tracking Steps, Patients Stick With Phones, Not Wearable Devices: Study

MONDAY, Feb. 24, 2020 -- Smartphones appear to be more effective than wearable fitness devices in helping doctors track patients' physical activity, researchers say.

Their new study included 500 patients who joined activity tracking programs at two Philadelphia hospitals. Half used a smartphone app to track their daily steps after leaving the hospital. The other half used a wearable device.

Variety is Key for the Fittest Americans

MONDAY, Feb. 24, 2020 -- Very fit American adults enjoy a wider range of physical activities than those who are less active, a new study finds.

The findings could help point to ways to boost physical activity in adults, according to the researchers.

Years of Endurance Exercise May Change Heart Structure

WEDNESDAY, Feb. 26, 2020 -- Triathlons, rowing, mountaineering, cross-country skiing: Tough exercise like this done over decades appears to reshape the heart, new research shows.

In older adults, long-term endurance exercise seems tied to an enlargement of the aorta -- the large artery that carries oxygenated blood from the heart to the rest of the body. But whether that change is beneficial or harmful remains unclear, U.S. researchers said.

'Couch Potato' Lifestyle Poses Danger to Women's Hearts

TUESDAY, Feb. 18, 2020 -- Most folks know that being a couch potato is bad for their health, but new research suggests that women who spend hours in their chairs and sofas might face greater risks than believed.

Sitting for long periods of time can increase risk factors for heart disease and diabetes, particularly if those bouts of sitting aren't broken up by occasionally getting up and stretching, the study found.

Time Spent on the Links May Lengthen Life

WEDNESDAY, Feb. 12, 2020 -- Grab your golf clubs. Spending a day on the green at least once a month may lower the risk of early death among older adults, a new study finds.

About 25 million Americans play golf, which is a sport that can reduce stress and yield exercise benefits. Social in nature and played at a controlled pace, people often continue enjoying the sport into old age.

Could High-Tempo Tunes Help Maximize Your Workout?

WEDNESDAY, Feb. 12, 2020 -- Gyms are bustling with regulars and resolutioners, all working up a sweat. But what's the secret to an easy, effective workout? It may be in the music.

A new study found that listening to music at a higher tempo reduces the perceived effort of exercise. For endurance exercises, such as walking on a treadmill, the effects were greatest.