Staying Healthy
Exercise can add years to your life
So how do you get in on the benefit? "Being physically active is one of the best things you can do for health. It decreases the risk of many chronic diseases and so enhances longevity; it also improves physical and mental functioning. Even if you cannot meet physical activity recommendations (the equivalent of 150 minutes per week of brisk walking), any activity is better than none. Our study showed that even 75 minutes per week of brisk walking was associated with a gain of almost two years," says Dr. I-Min Lee, professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School and one of the study investigators.
To continue reading this article, you must log in.
Subscribe to Harvard Health Online for immediate access to health news and information from Harvard Medical School.
- Research health conditions
- Check your symptoms
- Prepare for a doctor's visit or test
- Find the best treatments and procedures for you
- Explore options for better nutrition and exercise
I'd like to receive access to Harvard Health Online for only $4.99 a month.
Sign Me UpAlready a member? Login ».
Disclaimer:
As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.
No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.