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Journal ArticleEuropean journal of preventive cardiology·Aug 2026

After 70, Staying Fit for Just One More Year Cut Heart Risk by 40%

Key Insight

This study suggests keeping cardio fitness up past age 70 is linked to fewer heart events.


Norwegian adults aged 70 to 77 had their actual oxygen uptake measured, not just guessed from a questionnaire. Over the next decade, the fitter ones had clearly fewer heart attacks, strokes, heart failure cases, and heart deaths. Men above roughly 26 mL/kg/min and women above 22.2 mL/kg/min were in the lower-risk group. Those who stayed fit across one year had 36% (men) and 42% (women) lower risk than those who stayed unfit.

Disclaimer: Research summaries are provided for informational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your health routine.