Regular jogging could increase life expectancy, according to the findings of a new study.
The results of the research showed that between one to two-and-a-half hours of jogging each week at a slow or average pace could be most beneficial in increasing life expectancy.
Researchers compared the mortality of nearly 2,000 joggers to that of non-joggers and found regular jogging increased life expectancy of men by 6.2 years and women by 5.6 years.
All of the participants were part of the Copenhagen City Heart study which started in 1976 to help increase knowledge about heart and circulatory disease.
Natasha Stewart, Senior Cardiac Nurse at the British Heart Foundation, said: “Physical activity has long been associated with improved health and so it’s no surprise to see just how beneficial jogging could be.
“Staying active can help prevent and manage a wide variety of health conditions and keep your heart in great shape. It can help the way you look and feel today but could also help to protect your heart health in the future too.
“Jogging might not be for everybody but there are plenty of other ways to keep active. Swimming, walking or even a spot of gardening can be beneficial, too. If you have concerns about the impact of exercise on your health, visit your GP first.”
The findings were presented at a conference organised by the European Association for Cardiovascular Prevention and Rehabilitation, part of the European Society of Cardiology.
