Association Between Physical Activity and Chronic Condition

Dear Colleagues,

The relationship between physical activity, sedentary behavior and health is a subject of significant interest due to the substantial impact these factors exert on quality of life and the prevention of chronic diseases. Regular physical activity is widely recognized as one of the pillars of health, as it improves blood circulation, reduces LDL cholesterol levels and increases HDL cholesterol. In addition, physical activity helps control blood pressure and regulate body weight, all of which are essential factors for preventing diseases such as heart attacks and strokes.

Sedentary behavior, defined as extended periods of inactivity, has been associated with an elevated risk of cardiovascular disease, irrespective of the individual's level of physical activity. Research has demonstrated that excessive time spent in a seated or inactive state can lead to elevated blood glucose levels, exacerbate insulin resistance, and augment systemic inflammation, all of which are contributing factors to the development of cardiovascular disease. Consequently, the promotion of an active lifestyle and the reduction in sedentary behavior are imperative for the enhancement of cardiovascular health and the mitigation of mortality rates associated with these conditions.

The purpose of this Special Issue is to gather and disseminate innovative research that explores the complex interactions between physical activity and health, and its impact on cardiovascular health. The section will highlight epidemiological, clinical and review studies that deepen our understanding of how different levels of physical activity and sedentary behaviors influence the risk of cardiovascular disease, identifying both the benefits of active habits and the risks associated with prolonged inactivity. In addition, the section will foster the development of evidence-based preventive strategies and interventions, promoting practical recommendations that can be incorporated into public policies and clinical practice, contributing to the promotion of more robust global health.

In this Special Issue, original research articles and reviews are welcome. Research areas may include (but not limited to) the following:

• Physical activity in the hospital environment: adults, adolescents and children.
• Impact of moderate and intense physical activity on the prevention of cardiovascular diseases.
• Evidence on the dose–response relationship between sitting time and cardiovascular health.
• Sedentary behavior patterns and cardiometabolic risk factors in the elderly.
• Evaluation of how sedentary time influences cardiac health in older populations.
• Physical activity-based interventions to reduce cardiovascular risk in office workers.
• Use of wearable technology to monitor physical activity and prevent cardiovascular disease.
• Evaluation of the role of devices such as smartwatches and pedometers in promoting more active lifestyles.
• Sedentary behaviour in children and adolescents: long-term impact on health.
• Relationship between sedentary behavior and systemic inflammation in cardiovascular diseases.
• Exploration of the biological mechanisms linking sedentary behavior to chronic inflammation and heart health.
• The role of sleep, physical activity and sedentary behavior in cardiovascular health.
• An analysis of how the balance between sleep, physical activity and sedentary time affects cardiovascular risk.

We look forward to receiving your contributions.

Dr. Rodrigo Daminello Raimundo
Guest Editor

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• physical exercise
• physical activity
• cardiovascular health
• aerobic exercise
• exercise tolerance
• exercise therapy
• post-exercise recovery
• exercise movement techniques
• cool-down exercise
• aquatic therapy
• exergaming
• children
• paediatrics