It’s never too late to exercise: New study finds humans evolved to maintain high levels of physical activity as the body ages
Exercise has no age. What is a new to research will appear on December 14 in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences find. While many believed they should get more rest as they age, the study indicates the opposite is true because the human body has evolved to maintain a high degree of physical activity as they age.
Old man lifting weights, while the trainer stands beside. (PHOTO: Shutterstock)
Humans should exercise more as they age
The study researchers wrote that the fossils refuted previous claims that human ancestors had short lifespans, as it was common for people to live to 70 years. Online Lifestyle Magazine Ride a bike reported that the researchers found that exercise helped them prolong their lives, which in turn helped them improve blood circulation, reduce fat, and effectively repair DNA.
In what they call the “grandfather hypothesis,” the researchers suggest that evolution favored humans who have engaged in lifelong physical activity because it prevents chronic disease. This links physical activity with longevity.
The recommended physical activities even for the elderly are cycling, weight training, hiking and swimming. Previous studies have also found that moving more in general as you get older can give people a stronger cardiovascular and respiratory system and improve their immune function.
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Lack of exercise increases the risk of disease
According to Health Linegetting regular exercise or physical activity is important for everyone. Even people with chronic illnesses or people with disabilities have been advised to exercise at least three times a week to reduce their risk of cardiovascular problems.
Dr Thomas F. Boyden of SHMG Cardiovascular Medicine in Grand Rapids, Michigan, said activity is essential for stimulating the heart and lungs, regardless of age. It increases both heart rate and respiratory rate to reduce chronic diseases, such as strokes and heart attacks, and also lowers the risk of cancer and premature death.
People with diabetes, high blood pressure or high cholesterol reduced their risk by up to 7% with regular physical activity, but inactive people increased their risk of cardiovascular problems by 27%.
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