Workout routines for extended lifespan: discover the top exercise recommendations from leading experts for living longer.
A recent study published in Oncotarget has shed light on a cellular mechanism by which exercise contributes to longevity. The study found that adults with high physical activity levels have significantly longer telomeres, the protective caps at the ends of chromosomes that are a key marker of aging, than sedentary individuals.
This finding aligns with current physical activity guidelines, which recommend adults engage in 150 to 300 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week, or 75 to 150 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity, complemented by muscle-strengthening exercises on 2 or more days per week. These guidelines, supported by research in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, are aimed at helping delay aging and maintain health in adults, including older adults with good fitness.
The protective function of muscle mass, often referred to as the "armour of the body" by PT Rhodri Whittaker, also plays a significant role in longevity. Muscle mass provides physical protection to bones and joints, increasing fall survivability. This, along with the potential of exercise to slow the decline of telomeres, a process associated with aging, makes regular exercise a crucial component of a longer life.
The British Journal of Sports Medicine research further supports the notion that exercise plays a significant role in longevity. In fact, engaging in 150 to 300 minutes of moderate-intensity, or 75 to 150 minutes of vigorous-intensity physical activity per week has been found to align with optimal mortality reduction.
Experts believe that exercise is crucial for maintaining a mobile, disease-free, and independent life for longer. Liam Gallagher, a well-known figure, has also expressed interest in living longer, adding to the growing interest around exercises for longevity.
Dr Alka Patel, a longevity and lifestyle doctor, emphasizes that exercise is essential for keeping mitochondria functioning, reducing inflammation, and maintaining a strong heart for decades. Dr Kai Koch, a consultant physician at Marylebone Health, agrees and warns that physical inactivity is a growing concern, with nearly a third of the world's adult population being physically inactive.
The insurgent wellness boom, with billionaires biohacking themselves, is indicative of increased focus on health. Regular, heart-thumping movement, coupled with a healthy diet and avoiding cigarettes and alcohol, is just as important for a long life as it is for overall health outcomes.
However, it's important to note that there is no known way to reverse the shortening of telomeres. But exercise can help slow the process, making it a crucial tool in the quest for a longer, healthier life. The study in Oncotarget provides evidence that physical activity may contribute to longevity at a cellular level, reinforcing the importance of regular exercise in our daily lives.
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