Simple Daily Movements Can Cut Cancer Risk, Study Finds — No Intense Workouts Required
Simple Daily Movements Can Cut Cancer Risk, Study Finds — No Intense Workouts Required
No intense workouts required—everyday movements like walking, cleaning, and climbing stairs can significantly lower cancer risk, researchers find.
A groundbreaking study by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the University of Oxford reveals that simple, everyday movements may play a crucial role in reducing cancer risk—without the need for rigorous workouts.
The study, which observed over 85,000 adults in the UK, found that people who engaged in light physical activities such as walking to the store, climbing stairs, or doing household chores had a 26% lower risk of developing cancer compared to those who led more sedentary lifestyles.
The research highlights a clear link between physical activity—both light and moderate-to-vigorous—and a reduced risk of cancers, particularly breast and colorectal cancer. Even replacing small amounts of sitting time with movement proved beneficial. For instance:
- Walking 7,000 steps daily was associated with an 11% lower cancer risk
- Walking 9,000 steps daily brought the risk down by 16% compared to those walking just 5,000 steps
- Benefits plateaued beyond 9,000 steps but did not decrease
Simple Ways to Stay Active Throughout the Day
The good news: staying active doesn’t require a gym membership. Experts suggest incorporating small, consistent habits such as:
- Take the stairs: Opt for stairs over elevators whenever possible
- Move with purpose: Turn household chores like vacuuming and gardening into energizing activities
- Walk after meals: A short 10-minute walk after dinner can aid digestion and boost daily step count
- Pace while talking: Walking during phone calls adds unnoticed active minutes
- Break up long sitting periods: Set a reminder to stand, stretch, or walk for a minute every hour
