The Key to Living Beyond 70 Years Old: Consistently Maintaining Physical Activity
Exercising is not just a medical recommendation: it is a direct investment in years of life. An international research, based on decades of data, shows that sustained physical activity — or even adopted in later stages — can reduce the risk of premature death by up to 40%. The message is clear: it is never too late to start, and any effort, no matter how small it may seem, can have a profound impact on health.
A global analysis with strong conclusions
Researchers from the United Kingdom gathered data from 85 studies that, together, cover more than 6.5 million people worldwide. The goal was to understand how exercise influences longevity, beyond specific measurements at a particular moment. The most relevant finding: those who maintained a constant level of exercise in adulthood presented a risk of premature death up to 40% lower. This effect was especially notable in the prevention of heart diseases, although it was also observed, to a lesser extent, against cancer.
Starting late… and still gaining years of life
The great surprise of the study was to verify that even those who started exercising in more advanced stages achieved significant benefits. Those who started from low levels and progressively increased their activity reduced the risk of death by between 20% and 25%. Even when the increase was limited to leisure time, the reduction reached 27%. This reinforces the idea that a radical change is not necessary to obtain results: every increase in movement counts.
More movement, more health, fewer excuses
WHO guidelines recommend between 150 and 300 minutes of moderate activity per week or 75 to 150 minutes of vigorous exercise. However, the study revealed that even levels below these figures already generate tangible benefits.
The crucial point, according to the researchers, is consistency. It is more beneficial to have been exercising and then stop. Any opportunity to move — walking, swimming, dancing, or climbing stairs — becomes a direct investment in quality and length of life.
It’s never too late to start
The final message is optimistic: the door to a longer and healthier life is open to everyone, regardless of the starting age. Regular exercise, adapted to each person’s capabilities and preferences, not only extends life but improves its quality, preventing diseases. Ultimately, moving is living… and stopping moving, in many ways, is stopping living.
