New groundbreaking research from the University of South Australia highlights the profound impact of regular exercise, such as running, cycling, or swimming, on extending one’s lifespan and promoting overall health. The study reveals that maintaining a higher level of cardio fitness can lead to a remarkable 11-17% reduction in mortality risk from any cause.

Published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine (BJSM), this comprehensive study analysed data from 26 systematic reviews with meta-analysis, encompassing over 20.9 million observations from 199 unique cohort studies. It represents the most extensive compilation of scientific evidence on the prospective relationship between cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) and health outcomes in adults.

The research, led by Senior Author Professor Grant Tomkinson from UniSA, underscores the pivotal role of cardiorespiratory fitness in maintaining good health. CRF, defined as the ability to sustain physical activity over an extended period, correlates strongly and consistently with various health outcomes, including heart disease, depression, diabetes, dementia, and cancer.

The findings reveal a direct association between CRF levels and the risk of premature death and chronic conditions, such as heart failure. For every 1-MET increase in CRF, equivalent to the energy expended during quiet sitting, the risk of early mortality and heart failure decreases by 11-17% and 18%, respectively.

Professor Tomkinson emphasises that regular aerobic exercise, such as running, cycling, or swimming, can effectively boost CRF levels and mitigate the risk of adverse health outcomes. The study’s message is clear: vigorous physical activity significantly reduces the likelihood of premature death and the development of chronic diseases.

Chronic health conditions pose a significant public health challenge, contributing to a substantial burden of disease and disability. In Australia alone, an estimated 11.6 million individuals, representing 47% of the population, grapple with chronic and debilitating health conditions, underscoring the urgency of preventive measures.

Lead author Dr Justin Lang, from the Public Health Agency of Canada and UniSA, underscores the importance of cardiorespiratory fitness as a critical indicator of health status. The study serves as a compelling reminder for individuals to prioritise physical activity and movement to enhance their fitness levels and improve overall health outcomes.

Dr Lang advocates for additional moderate physical activity, such as brisk walking for at least 150 minutes per week, to bolster cardiorespiratory fitness and reduce mortality and disease risk. Moreover, he stresses the importance of routine assessment by clinicians and exercise professionals to identify individuals at higher risk and implement tailored exercise programmes to enhance CRF through regular physical activity.

More information: Justin J Lang et al, Cardiorespiratory fitness is a strong and consistent predictor of morbidity and mortality among adults: an overview of meta-analyses representing over 20.9 million observations from 199 unique cohort studies, British Journal of Sports Medicine. DOI: 10.1136/bjsports-2023-107849

Journal information: British Journal of Sports Medicine Provided by University of South Australia