Midlife cardiorespiratory fitness and long-term risk of mortality

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Midlife cardiorespiratory fitness and long-term risk of mortality

Background

Having good cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) is known to help people live longer. However, the exact link between CRF and life expectancy isn’t completely clear.

Objectives

This study looked at how CRF affects life expectancy in middle-aged men who are employed and do not have heart disease.

Methods

The study involved 5,107 men with an average age of 48.8 years. Participants were divided into four groups based on their CRF levels:

  • Below the normal range
  • Low normal
  • High normal
  • Above the normal range

Their CRF was measured using a bicycle exercise test.

Results

Over 46 years of follow-up:

  • 4,700 men (92%) passed away, with 2,149 (42.1%) dying from heart disease.

When comparing the different CRF groups:

  • The low normal group lived 2.1 years longer than the lowest group.
  • The high normal group lived 2.9 years longer than the lowest group.
  • The above normal group had the longest life expectancy, living 4.9 years longer than all other groups.

Moreover, for each unit increase in CRF, there was an associated 45-day increase in life expectancy.

Conclusion

This study found that higher levels of cardiorespiratory fitness are strongly linked to longer life in middle-aged men without heart disease. The benefits of being fit in midlife can help people enjoy a longer life later on.

The research also revealed each unit increase in VO2max was associated with a 45-day increase in longevity. This means that higher cardiovascular fitness levels added more years to a man’s life! 📈🌟

Trainer recommendations

  • Get in touch and allow us to assess your fitness. It just might add years to your life and life to your steps. 📅
  • Register now for your own VO2 max fitness assessment.

Watch

Check out this engaging video that walks you through the exciting process of assessing your VO2 max fitness.




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