Recent study shows fitness in middle-age reduces chronic diseases later in life

Recent study shows fitness in middle-age reduces chronic diseases later in life

As if you need another reason to get fit – a recent study has shown how fitness in middle age can play a major role in preventing debilitating chronic diseases later in life.

The study, which can be found in the Archives of Internal Medicine, took a close look at the role physical fitness plays in health later in life, gathering statistics from over 18,000 adults and following their health statuses into old age. 40 years of compiling this data found a statistic that is difficult to argue with: that those who had higher fitness levels in their 30’s, 40’s and 50’s were much less likely to develop a chronic condition in their 70’s and 80’s.

Not only did increased physical fitness reduce risk of heart disease and heart failure, which is a well-known statistic to some, but it seemed to play a major role in preventing diabetes, kidney disease and Alzheimer’s disease. It also showed to increase lifespan.

Fitness professionals recommend making time for at least 20 minutes of physical activity a day — fast walking, jogging, biking, or swimming — which is totally doable, even for busy, middle-aged folks, and it looks like you reap the benefits for years to come!