“However, structured exercise is still the better option of the two,” advises Whitehouse. “With a structured regime, you’ll improve muscle tone (maintaining better balance) and bone density (lowering your risk of osteoporosis and fractures) as well as benefitting your heart health.

“Remember also the mental health benefits of regular exercise. Mental and physical wellbeing go hand-in-hand, and while you might experience a quick rush of endorphins after VILPA, these will be more short-lived than the feelgood you’ll get during time spent running in the woods or training in the gym.”

So, it seems that while VILPA is a great way to start to build more physical activity into our lives, it’s not a complete substitute for a structured, regular exercise regime. But, as Whitehouse recommends, be sure to take time to build a solid foundation from which to progress safely and sustainably.

Forget intermittent fasting – ‘vigorous intermittent lifestyle physical activity’ might be the key to better health