Doing any aerobic activity regularly may help you live longer

Any kind of activity that gets your heart and lungs working is good for you. But does one type of exercise help you live longer than another? Not really, according to research published online Aug. 24, 2022, by JAMA Network Open. The observational study involved more than 272,000 adults (average age 70) who answered questions about their health and activity levels in 1995 and again in 2005, and were followed for another 12 years. Participants reported how much time they spent jogging or running; cycling; swimming laps; doing other aerobic exercise (such as taking an aerobics class or using an exercise machine); playing tennis, squash, or racquetball; playing golf; or walking. Doing any of those activities for the recommended amount of time each week was associated with a 13% lower risk for premature death from any cause, compared with not exercising. Playing racquet sports and running produced the greatest risk reductions (16% and 15%), probably because they are more demanding, say study authors. But since all of the activities were linked to a longer life, the authors say it's most important to simply choose an exercise you enjoy and can sustain over time. The Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans recommends doing 2.5 to 5 hours per week of moderate-intensity activity (like brisk walking), or 1.25 to 2.5 hours per week of vigorous-intensity activity (like playing tennis).

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