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A new study shows that most people underestimate what qualifies as “moderate” or “vigorous” activity.

The survey asked 129 adults aged 18 to 64 to jog on a treadmill at speed that corresponded to their impressions of “light,” “moderate,” or “vigorous” intensity. They then compared their heart rates to physical activity guidelines produced by Health Canada and found that the average heart rate for self-reported “moderate” or “vigorous” activity was lower than the recommendations.

Original research paper published in the PLOS ONE on May 16, 2014.

Names and affiliations of selected authors

Jennifer Kuk, York University, Ontario