In a new study, researchers found that being physically fit after age 60 can lead to an 11 percent decrease in the risk of heart disease. In contrast, stopping regular exercise and training increases the likelihood of heart disease by 27 percent. So research shows that it's never too late to start exercising to stay in good shape.
Heart-healthy with fitness from 60
So getting older doesn't give you a clue to exercise, according to the new research. Instead, scientists found that a fit body, even in one's golden years, reduces the risk of heart disease and stroke. The study says the level of activity needed to achieve this benefit was about 1 hour of running per week.
“It is consistent with studies of other treatment interventions that clearly show that it is never too late to improve things,” agreed Dr. Michael Miyamoto, a cardiologist at Mission Hospital in Southern California, agreed. “It is also consistent with other exercise studies showing that those who go on to exercise will also receive clinical benefit from it.”
Researchers studied more than 1 million men and women aged 60 and older. All had received two consecutive health checks, first in 2019-2010 and then in 2011-2012. Each was asked questions about their lifestyle and theirphysical activityplaced. The researchers calculated the number of moderate and vigorous exertions per week and the changes between health checks.
More than 20 percent of inactive seniors at the first examination had increased their physical activity the second time. These people had an 11 percent reduced risk of cardiovascular disease.
“We were not surprised by our results as we expected the cardiovascular benefits of exercise in older adults.” This was said by lead study author Kyuwoong Kim, a doctoral student in the Department of Biomedical Sciences at Seoul National University Graduate School.
Quintessence of research
People of older age oraged 50 and over who do more sport, reduced their risk of cardiovascular disease by 11 percent. In contrast, the risk for those who live sedentary lives increases by 27 percent, according to new research. Older people with disabilities or chronic illnesses such as high blood pressure or diabetes also benefited from exercise. Experts say it's a good idea to talk to your doctor before you start exercising to find the best path for your age and fitness form.
Find out more about the studyhere.
