Exercise significantly reduces the risk of premature death

A new study once again underscores the importance of sufficient exercise. Adults who consistently exercise throughout their lives can reduce their risk of premature death by up to 40 percent.

This is evident from a global study by the University of Queensland, based on 85 studies and 8 million people.

Physical inactivity is a major risk factor for health worldwide and is associated with several noncommunicable diseases. It is the fourth leading risk factor for mortality.

The study examined how physical activity affects mortality and health and showed that remaining or becoming active reduces the risk of death by 20 to 40 percent, and the mortality rate from cardiovascular disease by 30 to 40 percent. Becoming active later in life also pays off, reducing the risk of premature death by 20 to 25 percent.

Dr. Gregore Iven Mielke of the University of Queensland says the results emphasize the importance of regular exercise and show that it's never too late to start being active.

"These findings are encouraging, especially when consistent physical activity isn't always possible due to life's limitations," says Dr. Mielke. "People have often asked me if they're too old to start exercising. My answer is no, you can start now and achieve lasting benefits."

Moreover, if you were once fit but then stopped, you could still reap the benefits later. "This would allow you to reap the benefits of exercise years, or even decades, earlier, but more research is needed."

It's already been proven that spending hours at the gym isn't necessary. Research from the University of Sydney showed that four minutes of intense exercise a day can go a long way toward improving your health.

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