Researchers at the American Geriatrics Society have identified a lack physical activity as the strongest risk factor for major mobility disability as we get older – but that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s time to commit yourself to a daily pre-breakfast half marathon just yet.
The study looked the effect of moderate-to-vigorous physical actions that come from activities like gardening or walking to the shops, as well as lighter forms of activity.
Special attention was paid to the intensity and frequency of these movements, and whether this impacted a person’s likelihood of developing a major mobility disability.
Participants in the study (ranging from 70 to 89 years old) were divided into two groups: an exercise group and a group that received health education with no exercise.
Researchers recorded an average 20 minutes of activity or less per week in both groups at the beginning of the study. But after six months a noted improvement was seen in the exercise group, with an additional 40 minutes of moderate to vigorous exercise per week.
The findings suggest physical activity is key to warding off major mobility problems, but like shoes at a bowling alley it’s certainly not a case of one size fits all.
The researchers concluded that while physical activity is encouraged, it’s recommended that it should be spread evenly throughout the day and the intensity should be tailored to match the person’s physical health.
So, now there’s no excuse not to get off the couch.
