Exercise Is the Only Proven Way to Extend Healthy Years, Review Finds
Based on: Interventions that prolong multidimensional indicators of healthspan in humans: a systematic review of randomised controlled trials.
Researchers looked at 15 trials testing ways to extend healthspan, the years you live in good health. Exercise, alone or combined with other approaches, was the only thing that consistently improved how well people functioned and felt. Other approaches like supplements and calorie restriction had too little evidence to draw conclusions.
Key Insight
This review suggests regular exercise, whether aerobic or strength training, may help extend the years you spend in good health.
Original Paper
Zheng HT, Phyo AZZ, McCubbin C, Wu Z, Bischoff-Ferrari HA, Ryan J
Related Studies
Staying Active From Midlife Cuts Sarcopenia Risk by Up to 78%
In Norwegians tracked for over 30 years, those who stayed active from middle age into their 70s had 78% lower odds of confirmed muscle loss. Even people who started exercising later in life saw meaningful benefits. People who became inactive lost most of the protection.
Two Hours of Weekly Strength Training Hits the Sweet Spot for Longevity
In nearly 150,000 adults tracked for up to 30 years, doing 90 to 119 minutes of strength training per week was linked to a 13% lower risk of dying from any cause. More than two hours weekly added no extra benefit. Combining strength work with aerobic exercise gave the biggest mortality drop.
Why Higher-Intensity Workouts May Protect Fitness Better as You Age
Older adults aged 70 to 77 who did high-intensity training held onto their aerobic fitness much better over 5 years than those doing moderate workouts. Women doing high-intensity training showed essentially no decline in VO2 peak, while moderate exercisers dropped 4.6%. Intensity mattered more than total exercise time for slowing the age-related drop in fitness.
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.
