Abstract
Introduction: stroke remains a leading cause of mortality and long-term disability worldwide. physical activity has been increasingly recognized as a modifiable lifestyle factor for improving health outcomes and preventing chronic diseases. Objective: the objective of this study was to examine the role of physical activity in enhancing physical quality of life and reducing stroke risk, with a particular focus on the effects of different activity intensities. Methodology: a longitudinal intervention study was conducted involving 180 participants aged 45 to 70, divided into moderate-intensity, low-intensity, and control groups. data were collected at baseline and after a six-month intervention period using validated physiological and quality of life measures. Results: participants in the moderate-intensity group showed significantly greater improvements in physical quality of life and cardiovascular health indicators compared to other groups. statistical analyses confirmed a dose-response effect and significant mediation by cardiovascular health. Discussion: the findings aligned with existing literature indicating that structured physical activity reduces stroke risk and enhances physical well-being. the results also confirmed that these benefits are partly explained by improvements in cardiovascular function. Conclusions: moderate-intensity physical activity should be promoted as an effective strategy for enhancing quality of life and preventing stroke in middle-aged and older adults.