Even Moderate Exercise Can Reduce the Risk of Early Death

In a study that is very good news for generally inactive people – just getting yourself on a consistent and moderate daily exercise program can significantly reduce your risk of early death. 

The study is a meta-analysisA quantitative statistical analysis of several separate but similar experiments or studies in order to test the pooled data for statistical significance.¹ evaluating the results of 22 studies involving 1.6 million men and women.  The study found that 2.5 hours per week, or 30 minutes per day 5 days per week, of moderate non-strenuous exercise such as walking or biking reduced the risk of mortality by 19%.  7 hours per week of moderate activity reduced the risk by 24%.

While I personally would suggest more intense exercise on a consistent basis for maximal longevity enhancement this study is a great starting point, especially for people in the inactive high risk of early death category.  It means that all you have to do is get your body moving a little bit, on a consistent basis, and you will be much healthier.