Live Longer with This One Simple Secret: How Flexibility Could Be the Key to a Lengthy Life!
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As we age, we often focus on maintaining our health through diet and regular exercise, but there's one aspect of fitness that might not get as much attention as it should: flexibility. It turns out that this often-overlooked component of physical fitness could be a secret ingredient to a longer life. A recent study has sparked interest in the connection between flexibility and longevity, and it's worth taking a closer look.
The study, published in the Scandinavian Journal of Medicine & Science in Sports, analysed data from over 3,100 individuals across 28 years. Researchers assessed participants' flexibility using a 'Flexitest,' which measured their ability to perform 20 different joint movements. Based on their performance, each person was given a 'Flexindex' score ranging from zero to 80. The findings were quite revealing: those with higher flexibility scores had better survival rates for deaths from natural or non-COVID causes. Women, in particular, showed a significant correlation between flexibility and survival, with less flexible women having a 4.78 times higher risk of dying compared to their more flexible counterparts. For men, the risk was 1.87 times higher for those with lower flexibility scores.
But does being more flexible directly contribute to living longer? The study didn't establish flexibility as the sole cause of increased longevity. Instead, it suggested that flexibility might be an indicator of a more active lifestyle or greater health consciousness—both of which are known to contribute to a longer life. However, the link between flexibility and longevity is undeniable and warrants further investigation.
Experts like Ryan Glatt, CPT, a personal trainer and senior brain health coach, and Albert Matheny, RD, CSCS, a co-founder of SoHo Strength Lab, agree that while the evidence isn't conclusive, there's no harm in working on flexibility. In fact, they advocate for incorporating flexibility exercises into workout routines, especially for older adults. As we age, our flexibility naturally decreases, so maintaining it can help prevent injuries and improve overall joint function.
Flexibility exercises, such as yoga, can be easily integrated into your fitness regimen. These activities not only enhance your range of motion but also support recovery, healing, and the proper functioning of your joints. If you're experiencing significant challenges with flexibility, consulting with a doctor or a physical therapist for targeted exercises might be beneficial.
So, dear members of the Seniors Discount Club, it's time to stretch your way to a potentially longer life. Whether it's through a morning yoga session, a post-walk stretch, or a dedicated flexibility class, making time for this simple yet vital aspect of fitness could pay dividends in the years to come. Remember, it's not just about adding years to your life, but life to your years—and staying flexible could help you enjoy each moment more fully.
We'd love to hear from you! Have you noticed a difference in your health and well-being since incorporating more flexibility exercises into your routine? Share your experiences in the comments below, and let's inspire each other to keep stretching for longevity.
The study, published in the Scandinavian Journal of Medicine & Science in Sports, analysed data from over 3,100 individuals across 28 years. Researchers assessed participants' flexibility using a 'Flexitest,' which measured their ability to perform 20 different joint movements. Based on their performance, each person was given a 'Flexindex' score ranging from zero to 80. The findings were quite revealing: those with higher flexibility scores had better survival rates for deaths from natural or non-COVID causes. Women, in particular, showed a significant correlation between flexibility and survival, with less flexible women having a 4.78 times higher risk of dying compared to their more flexible counterparts. For men, the risk was 1.87 times higher for those with lower flexibility scores.
But does being more flexible directly contribute to living longer? The study didn't establish flexibility as the sole cause of increased longevity. Instead, it suggested that flexibility might be an indicator of a more active lifestyle or greater health consciousness—both of which are known to contribute to a longer life. However, the link between flexibility and longevity is undeniable and warrants further investigation.
A new study suggested more flexibility might mean a longer life. Credit: Unsplash
Experts like Ryan Glatt, CPT, a personal trainer and senior brain health coach, and Albert Matheny, RD, CSCS, a co-founder of SoHo Strength Lab, agree that while the evidence isn't conclusive, there's no harm in working on flexibility. In fact, they advocate for incorporating flexibility exercises into workout routines, especially for older adults. As we age, our flexibility naturally decreases, so maintaining it can help prevent injuries and improve overall joint function.
Flexibility exercises, such as yoga, can be easily integrated into your fitness regimen. These activities not only enhance your range of motion but also support recovery, healing, and the proper functioning of your joints. If you're experiencing significant challenges with flexibility, consulting with a doctor or a physical therapist for targeted exercises might be beneficial.
So, dear members of the Seniors Discount Club, it's time to stretch your way to a potentially longer life. Whether it's through a morning yoga session, a post-walk stretch, or a dedicated flexibility class, making time for this simple yet vital aspect of fitness could pay dividends in the years to come. Remember, it's not just about adding years to your life, but life to your years—and staying flexible could help you enjoy each moment more fully.
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every little bit helps right.
