Regular Exercise Linked to Longer, Healthier Life: Study
Regular Exercise Linked to Reduced Risk of Death, Study Finds
A recent study published in BJSM from the University of South Australia has found that engaging in regular exercise can significantly reduce your risk of death from any cause by 11 to 17%. The research, which compiled data from over 20.9 million observations, showed that for every 1-MET increase in cardiorespiratory fitness, a person can decrease their risk of death by 11-17%, with a specific 18% reduction in the risk of death from heart disease.
Lead author, Professor Grant Tomkinson, emphasized the importance of cardiorespiratory fitness in promoting optimal health, stating that it is strongly linked to various health outcomes such as heart failure, depression, diabetes, dementia, and cancer. “Those with low levels of cardiorespiratory fitness are far more likely to die early or develop chronic conditions like heart disease later in life,” Tomkinson added.
The study also highlighted the prevalence of chronic health conditions worldwide, with Australia alone reporting 11.6 million people suffering from debilitating health conditions. This underscores the importance of incorporating regular exercise into daily routines to improve overall health and reduce the risk of premature death.
Lead author from the Public Health Agency of Canada and Adjunct Professor at UniSA, emphasized the role of healthcare professionals in assessing and promoting physical activity among individuals. “By routinely assessing cardiorespiratory fitness, clinicians and exercise professionals can identify adults at greater risk of early death and initiate exercise programs aimed at increasing fitness through regular physical activity,” she explained.
In conclusion, the study reinforces the importance of incorporating regular exercise, such as running, cycling, swimming, or brisk walking, into daily routines to improve overall health and reduce the risk of chronic conditions and premature death. The message is clear: staying active can lead to a longer and healthier life.
