Life can get hectic, and balancing work, health, and daily responsibilities is tough for many. Unfortunately, this struggle often leads to skipping physical activities, which can harm health and shorten life expectancy. However, a recent CNN-reported study shows that regular exercise can increase life expectancy by up to five years.
What the Experts Say
Dr. Lennert Veerman, a public health professor at Griffith University in Australia, shared a surprising insight: “The loss of life expectancy in the United States due to low physical activity is comparable to the damage caused by smoking or high blood pressure.”
This finding builds on a 2019 study, which revealed that as physical activity increases, the risk of early death significantly decreases.
What the Study Found
The latest research focused on participants over 40 years old, an age when inactivity-related health risks become clearer. Researchers used a life table, a tool that calculates the chances of living to a certain age, to analyze the data.
The results were eye-opening:
Increasing physical activity by just 111 minutes daily could extend the life expectancy of inactive individuals by up to 11 years.
Dr. Veerman highlighted the importance of collective action to promote physical activity:
“We need to work together to make this happen. Reducing our dependence on cars and planning long-term solutions can make a big difference. Our current healthcare system can’t handle the growing costs of inactivity-related health issues.”
What Can You Do?
Making small lifestyle changes can have a big impact on your health and longevity. Here are a few tips to get started:
- Start Small: Add short walks, stretches, or simple exercises to your daily routine.
- Make It Fun: Find an activity you enjoy, like dancing, swimming, or biking.
- Plan Ahead: Schedule time for physical activity just like you would for work or appointments.
- Use Less Transportation: Walk or bike for short trips instead of driving.
This study underscores that regular exercise is not just about looking fit—it’s about living longer and healthier. Small changes in daily habits, combined with community efforts, can reduce inactivity-related health risks and benefit everyone.
