by Nadia Sinclair

Ever noticed that post-workout glow that screams youth and vitality? Well, it’s not just a healthy flush, scientists say workouts are akin to a fountain of youth, promising both physical and mental anti-ageing benefits.

The Science Between Fitness and Ageing

Are you aware that workouts are a safeguard for our cells? Vast studies, such as those conducted at Germany’s renowned Saarland University demonstrate that regular physical activity minimises the reduction of telomeres- the protective “caps” guarding the ends of our chromosomes. Think of telomeres as the plastic caps at the end of your shoelaces, preventing them from fraying. Just as frayed laces deteriorate, shortening telomeres signal increased cell ageing and mortality. Moreover, sedentary lifestyles can expose us to harmful effects at the cellular level, leading to inflammation and oxidative stress.

The Rewards of Routine Exercise

From bolstering heart health to fostering brain cell growth and promoting skin radiance, a well-choreographed exercise routine can pay dividends for your health. Regular physical activity reduces cardiovascular risk factors such as body fat, hypertension, and diabetes, while elevating protective HDL cholesterol levels.

Moreover, research from institutions like the University of Missouri-Columbia and the University of Essex indicates that moderately intense exercise, especially outdoors, can significantly decrease stress and anxiety levels while enhancing mood.

Physical activity also offers beauty benefits. By enhancing circulation, exercise ensures your skin is regularly supplied with oxygen and essential nutrients, granting you a natural, rosy glow.

There’s no denying that keeping fit strengthens the mind. Various studies affirm that consistent moderate exercise, like running, can generate brain cells and notably decrease the likelihood of age-related cognitive decline and dementia.

The anti-ageing perks of physical activity don’t stop there! Research conducted by the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center in Seattle, and other studies, suggest that regular exercise can decrease the risk of breast and colon cancers significantly.

Regular exercises like running, walking, and weight resistance training are some of the most potent tools to maintain bone mass – an important factor for bone health.

Finally, a consistent fitness regime can balance hormones, reducing symptoms of PMS and menopausal discomforts like anxiety, depression, and stress.

It’s Never Too Late to Start

Contrary to popular belief, there’s no age limit to harness the anti-ageing benefits of exercise. Commencing an active routine even in your 70s can increase life expectancy by up to 50%, as demonstrated by a groundbreaking study conducted by Boston’s Brigham and Women’s Hospital.

Don’t Overdo It

While regular exercise is the key to anti-ageing, overdoing it can lead to counterproductive results. Excessively exercising can increase the risk of injury, hormonal imbalance, joint stress, and even cellular inflammation. In addition, outdoor exercises need to be balanced with appropriate UV protection.

Aging Backwards: Your Fitness Guide

To tap into the anti-ageing prowess of fitness, consider incorporating a blend of aerobic, resistance, flexibility, and mental training into your routine.

• Cardiovascular activity: Aerobic activities such as dancing and swimming not just boost heart health but also lung function. Consider adding weight-bearing exercises such as walking and running to work on bone health, too.
• Resistance training: Weight training is excellent for muscle development, metabolism boost, bone strengthening, and improving flexibility and coordination.
• Stretching: Flexibility activities such as Pilates and yoga can amp up your joint and muscle strength while also combating stress.
• Mental training: Engage in activities that include social interaction, complicated rules, or memory tests such as dancing, orienteering, or netball to keep your brain healthy and youthful.

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