A recent study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine has shown that individuals who engage in intense exercise and run at fast speeds tend to live nearly 5 years longer on average than the general population. The study was conducted by a team of researchers from Canada and Australia, who analyzed health data over a span of 30 years from 200 athletes who were able to run a mile in under 4 minutes during the 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s.
The results of the study challenge the common belief that excessive exercise can have negative long-term health effects. In fact, pushing the body to its limits through intense physical activity could actually have positive impacts on longevity for certain individuals. Cardiologist Stephen Foulkes, the lead author of the study from the University of Alberta, noted that previous epidemiological studies on Tour de France and Olympic athletes have shown similar trends, linking intense physical activity with increased life expectancy.
Furthermore, the study highlighted that genetics may also play a role in the longevity benefits observed among athletes. Many of the athletes studied had family members who were also exceptional athletes, suggesting that genetic factors may contribute to their extended lifespans. While the exact cause of death among the athletes was not determined, data from elite athletes in other sports indicated lower mortality rates from heart disease and cancer, contributing to their longer lifespans.
Overall, the study’s findings emphasize the importance of exercise, even at high levels, in promoting long and healthy lives. In fact, additional research from Harvard University suggests that exceeding recommended levels of physical activity can significantly reduce the risk of death by up to 30%. These findings underscore the potential benefits of pushing
