A new study led by professor Tim D. Spector of Kin’s College in London has determined that there is a direct link between exercise and longevity. Although previous research has shown that physically active people generally have a reduced risk of heart disease and cancer, this is the first study that has proved that exercise can actually affect the physical make-up of our chromosome structure. According to Dr. Spector, telomeres cap the end of chromosomes. Every time a cell divides, the telomeres get shorter. When the telomeres get too short, they can no longer divide. Science believes that as more cells reach the end of their telomeres, muscles weaken, skin wrinkles, and the aging process speeds up.
The study consisted of 2,400 British twins. Dr. Spector and his research team found that the length of the subjects’ telomeres is directly related to their activity levels; the individuals who did a moderate amount of exercise – about 100 minutes a week – had telomeres that looked like those of an individual five or six years younger (on average) than their twin counterpart. “It’s a fairly strong association and a very interesting association,” said Jack M. Guarlnik of the National Institute on Aging.
The study did not address what happens to the telomeres of people who are sedentary for many years and later begin exercising, but most agree that the findings are significant in solving the puzzle on aging. One thing everyone agrees on – exercise is good for you, and can reduce several health risks. So keep it up!