Research so far has suggested that a mix of healthy lifestyle choices — like eating a healthy diet, not smoking, managing stress, getting enough sleep, and getting enough physical activity — can help us all live longer, healthier lives.
What can be confusing is knowing what types of physical activity are best for longevity.
A recent study published in BMJ Medicine helps answer that question by finding that regularly engaging in a variety of physical activities may be the best way to prolong your life span.
Which physical activities were included?
For this study, researchers analyzed data from two large studies — the Nurses’ Health Study and the Health Professionals Follow-Up Study — comprising more than 173,000 participants. The current study analyzed data from over 111,000 participants.
During these two studies, participants had their physical activity assessed over more than 30 years. Study participants were asked about their involvement in certain activities, including:
- Cardio activities like walking, jogging, running, cycling, rowing, tennis, and swimming.
- Lower-intensity exercises like yoga, stretching, and toning.
- Weight or resistance training
- Vigorous activities like mowing the lawn.
- Moderate-intensity outdoor work, such as gardening.
- High-intensity outdoor work, like digging and chopping.
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