A shocking truth has been revealed.
A recent study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine reveals that maintaining physical fitness is more important for longevity than body weight. The research, which is the largest of its kind, explored the link between aerobic fitness and the risk of premature death, particularly among individuals who are overweight or obese. It found that individuals with good aerobic fitness—meaning their cardiovascular and muscular systems work effectively during exercise—had a significantly lower risk of dying early, even if they carried excess weight.
The study discovered that individuals who were obese but physically fit had similar mortality rates to those of normal weight who were also fit. In contrast, those who were unfit, regardless of their body size, faced a much higher risk of dying prematurely. Unfit individuals had two to three times the chance of dying early from any cause, including heart disease, compared to their fit counterparts, regardless of whether they were overweight.
The research, which pooled data from nearly 400,000 adults across several countries, underscores the importance of cardiovascular fitness. It showed that people who were obese but fit had a much lower risk of premature death than those of normal weight who were unfit. These findings suggest that improving fitness can help mitigate the health risks commonly associated with obesity.
According to Siddhartha Angadi, the senior author of the study, the main takeaway is that fitness should be prioritized over weight when it comes to health and longevity. He also noted that improving fitness doesn’t require intense exercise; even moderate activities like brisk walking can lead to significant improvements in cardiovascular health.
Experts also emphasized that the study provides compelling evidence that improving physical fitness offers protective benefits, regardless of body size or gender. Barry Braun, a researcher who was not involved in the study, praised the findings for reinforcing the crucial role fitness plays in long-term health, urging for a stronger focus on promoting physical activity to support overall well-being.
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