Study highlights how physical fitness could lower premature death risk

A new analysis published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine shows just how much physical activity per day you may need to lower your risk of premature death.

New research estimates that 1 in 10 premature deaths recorded could have been prevented if all study participants had gotten 75 minutes of physical activity each week.

Researchers analyzed data from nearly 200 studies involving a total of more than 30 million participants from around the world, who self-reported their activity levels for at least three years.

The team then looked at the association between physical activity and 22 distinct health outcomes, including 14 types of cancer.

The results indicated that people who were moderately active for 75 minutes per week – meaning they engaged in activities like hiking, walking, cycling to work or playing actively with their children – had lower risks of overall mortality, heart disease, stroke and various cancers relative to people who were not active.

The new research underscores the idea that even a little physical activity is better than none, said doctors.