Scientists have carefully analyzed how the variety of physical activity affects mortality rates. Participants in the study engaged in sports such as running, cycling, swimming, rowing, gymnastics, tennis, squash, strength and aerobic training, yoga, stretching, as well as gardening.
Volunteers were assessed based on the diversity and intensity of physical activity throughout their lives. The results showed that the risk of premature death is reduced by 19% among those who practice a wide range of physical exercises, even after accounting for various lifestyle and health factors.
Interestingly, the level of exercise variety matters for longevity regardless of the total time spent on workouts. Thus, the authors of the study emphasize that engaging in different sports can provide additional health benefits, which is especially relevant for people with chronic illnesses, for whom physical activity is extremely important.
These findings are also supported by other studies showing that physical exercises slow down the processes of epigenetic aging.
