A novel element concerning physical exertion’s impact on lifespan has been uncovered by scientists. Based on findings reported in the journal BMJ Medicine, the variety of exercises performed might be more significant than the sheer quantity of workouts completed.
Researchers examined data drawn from two extensive, long-term cohort studies, involving over 110,000 individuals tracked for a three-decade span. Their focus encompassed a broad spectrum of physical activities, ranging from strolling and running to resistance training, swimming, and gardening.
The analysis revealed that participants who consistently integrated numerous exercise types experienced a substantially reduced likelihood of premature mortality. This protective outcome was evident even when their total workout volume was identical to that of individuals engaging in only a single form of exercise.
The correlation between activity levels and longevity proved to be non-linear. Optimal advantages were achieved at approximately 20 metabolic equivalents (MET-hours) per week. Pushing activity levels beyond this point failed to yield any considerable further gains.
The study’s authors stress that maintaining an active lifestyle remains crucial for preserving well-being. Nevertheless, strategically alternating between aerobic, strength, and moderate activities appears capable of conferring added benefits, likely because this mirrors natural human movement patterns more closely and fosters a more robust long-term outcome.
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