How does the FITT principle prevent heart disease?

The FITT principle refers to a set of guidelines relating to the Frequency, Intensity, Type and Time (FITT) of exercise that needs to be adhered to in order to benefit from fitness training.

The risk of developing heart disease is dependent on certain factors which are either modifiable or non-modifiable. The modifiable risk factors are called the primary risk factors and that includes smoking, high blood pressure et.c. The non-modifiable risk factors or secondary risk factors include having immediate relatives with heart disease.

Regular exercise has a positive impact on the primary risk factors and the FITT principle demonstrates the appropriate amount of exercise that is required to mitigate these risk factors.

For example regular aerobic activities are known to reduce blood pressure by about 5-10mmHg which translates to a 10-20% reduction in the risk of developing heart disease. Similarly, individuals who engage in regular aerobic exercises lower their bad cholesterol level while significantly increasing their good cholesterol.