New Study Suggests that Being Fit Prolongs Lifespan

According to a new study, if you're moderately fit as you age, you may live longer than those who are out-of-shape.

The study included more than 4,000 middle-aged and older adults whose fitness levels were assessed during exercise treadmill tests between 1986 and 2006; they were then followed for an average of about nine years.

Dr. Sandra Mandic, of the University of Otago in Dunedin, New Zealand conducted the research. She said that nearly two-thirds of the least-fit study participants were not getting the minimum recommended amount of exercise (30 minutes of moderate activity).

"These results emphasize the importance of improving and maintaining high fitness levels by engaging in regular physical activity," Mandic said.

She added, "Our findings suggest that sedentary lifestyle, rather than differences in cardiovascular risk factors or age, may explain the two-fold higher mortality rates in the least-fit versus slightly more fit healthy individuals."

For more tips on how to increase your daily activity, don't forget to read the Slim LifeStyle.

Source: Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, August 2009