The study aims to develop exercise|
guidelines that reduce the damage of free
radicals.
Image: iStockphoto

Despite its benefits, exercise can produce harmful free radicals and a new study is set to find out just how bad it is for you and what can be done to minimise the damage.
 
Finally, the news all exercise procrastinators have been waiting for – exercise may be bad for you.

James Cook University Sports and Exercise Science PhD candidate Amanda Geraghty is studying oxidative stress, a condition that can be brought on by exercise, is when the body is overwhelmed by the production of harmful free radicals.

Amanda’s project aims to develop exercise guidelines that will reduce the risk of the developing oxidative stress.

“Whilst the direct relationship has not been determined, free radicals can contribute to the onset of cardiovascular and neurological diseases and cancer and can accelerate aging,” Amanda said.

“Both trained and untrained individuals have been shown to experience oxidative stress. However, regular exercise has been shown to strengthen the resistance to this process.”

“My research will provide insight into whether exercise can be tailored to emphasise the positive adaptation,” she said.

“The aim of this study is to develop exercise guidelines which ultimately promote health and reduce free radical formation.”

But do not be too hasty is hanging up the joggers. The benefits of regular exercise and a balanced diet outweigh the risk that exercise may have a negative impact.

“It would be a good reason not to exercise when the treadmill is not an appealing option, but it is important to continue exercising, particularly when considering the serious implications of a sedentary lifestyle.”