In 1984 many individuals were attracted to jogging and running. The older people also started doing exercises and used to run for their health. During that time, many health professionals showed concerned towards elderly people for running. They said that they may suffer from orthopaedic injuries and arthritis. But now researchers say that running can slow aging.
The researches from the University of California at Stanford examined 284 runners and compared with 156 non runners to know how running may be the cause for the affect on elderly health. All of them were aged 50 and older, and were categorized by sex, age, Body mass index and smoking habits to know only the running effects.
Runners at the beginning of the study were spending 200 minutes a week but at the end of study they used to spend 70 minutes a week. While non-runners were exercising only for 20 minutes. Most runners stopped running but were exercising regularly at their 70’s.
The study was continued for 21 years which included regular health check-ups and checked for the overall quality of life. After the 19 years of study it was observed that 34% of non-runners died prematurely, but only 15% of runners died.
Runners also showed overall good health with reduced risk for cancer, heart disease, sleep disorders, psychological and neurological disorders. It also helped in slowing the aging process and improving bone and muscle growth. Elderly runners were fit, active, than non-runners. They were less likely to succumb to age-related illnesses.
From the University of California, Gordon Lishman said that this research re-confirm the clear health benefits of running and regular exercise for older people. The health benefits of older individuals are more often overlooked, while younger individuals have been given more encouragement to lead a healthy lifestyle.
