Physical activity and longevity

Can moving more help you live longer?

Youthfulness and the perception of youth have long been the quest of many. It is the driving force behind the $511b global beauty industry. However, beauty products will not extend your life and unfortunately, the Holy Grail and Fountain of Youth have yet to be discovered. The good news is that adding years to your life does not have to rely on mythical relics or magic pills. Even better, it is free and all you have to do is be active. Physical activity can indeed add years to your life while reducing the risk of premature death.

Physical exercise — the key to youthful vitality.

Maintaining a physically active lifestyle, although sometimes difficult, boasts endless opportunities to better your life. When comparing the least active to highly active groups you can see a multitude of benefits to physical activity.

• The mean risk of developing type 2 diabetes can be reduced by 42%. Diabetes has become increasingly prevalent in our globalised world and being mindful of what you eat can too reduce your risk.
• The mean risk of developing cardiovascular diseases can be reduced by 33% and even further through nutritional considerations.
• The mean risk of developing colon cancer and breast cancer can be reduced by 20% and 30%, respectively.
• The mortality rate (risk of dying from any cause) can be reduced by 30–35% compared with inactive individuals.

It is also important to note that regular physical activity can increase life expectancy by up to 7 years whilst reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression, and improving mood and happiness. Monitoring your heart rate is a fantastic way to evaluate your fitness level and keep an eye on the health of your heart. Lowering your resting heart rate reduces the strain on your heart and ultimately allows it to keep beating for longer.

How can you start improving your health and live longer?

Maintaining a regularly active lifestyle may at times seem difficult, but healthy habits make it easier. Try some of these simple hacks to start your journey to becoming more active:

• Walk or cycle to work when you can. Alternatively, park a little further away from your destination and walk the extra distance.
• Use your lunch hour to go on a walking adventure or to practise mindfulness and breathing exercises.
• Instead of scrolling through social media, head out for a stroll or complete a workout.
• Find an activity that you enjoy. We are all different, and it is vital to spend time enjoying what you enjoy doing. Win-win.
• Find a group and join it. The community will increase your enthusiasm and drive your involvement.

You do not need to be a marathon runner or tour cyclist to reap the life-extending benefits of physical exercise. Start small, even if that means a 10-minute walk every other day. Then slowly increase your active hours, week by week. Unlike other drugs, there is little risk of an exercise overdose and so the higher your dose, the better.

Living longer is as easy as getting out there and being active. A happier, healthier and longer life is yours for the taking, you just need to get moving to claim it.

Rory Ware | Staff Writer