Consistent exercise is a major driver of longevity, working alongside good nutrition and emotional balance. Whether it’s lifting, running, aerobic, yoga, or something else, every exercise type leaves its own signature on your health and body. Movement is a key ingredient in living longer and thriving.
A major new study analyzing data from more than 111,000 adults found that those who engaged in the widest variety of exercises had a 19% lower risk of dying prematurely compared to those with the least variety.
Using data gathered across more than 30 years, the scientists analyzed health and lifestyle patterns among adult men and women. Throughout the follow-up, participants logged their weekly hours dedicated to a mix of exercises which included walking, running, bicycling, weightlifting, gardening, and climbing stairs.
The data showed that more frequent or intense exercisers had a 4% to 17% lower risk of dying during the observation period, with reductions varying by activity type compared to those who did less. Remarkably, those incorporating the widest range of exercises had a reduced premature mortality risk relative to those with the least variety, and this held independently of overall exercise volume.
While different forms of physical activity each provide unique benefits to the body, most individual exercises reach a plateau where extra time or intensity yields little additional health gain. Blending multiple types of movement allows people to maximize the advantages of each while unlocking extra protection against premature death.
Something is always better than nothing when it comes to staying active. But to optimize for a longer, healthier life, the evidence points to keeping your routine fresh and varied for the biggest payoff.
To view the original scientific study click below:
Physical activity types, variety, and mortality: results from two prospective cohort studies
As we age, it becomes harder to lose body fat without also losing valuable muscle. A new study suggests one type of exercise may offer the best of both worlds. Researchers found that while all forms of exercise helped healthy older adults reduce body fat, only high-intensity interval training (HIIT) preserved lean muscle mass.
We know that obesity can raise the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes and other health conditions. And, for years, BMI has been one of the most common ways to assess weight-related health risks. But for older adults, BMI may not provide the full picture. In a new study, an increased waist size was associated with an increased risk of premature death among adults 65 and older.Waist size is a simple way to estimate the amount of visceral fat a person may have.
Millions of people around the world start their day with a cup of coffee. In 2021 alone, approximately 10 billion tons of coffee were consumed globally. With consumption at such a high level, researchers are taking a closer look at how these beverages may affect health. A recent study suggests that how much coffee you drink may influence its benefits, adding to evidence that coffee may have several positive effects on eye health.