Staying fit is essential for your overall health. While most people understand that exercise offers many benefits, new research highlights just how important it is to maintain fitness over time. This is crucial for preventing illnesses later in life.
A recent study by the Swedish School of Sport and Health Sciences involved over 131,000 men and explored the long-term effects of fitness on health. The research, based on the Swedish Enlistment Register and workplace health data from 1972 to 2020, tracked participants’ fitness levels over the years.
Participants’ fitness was tested twice, about 25 years apart, using bicycle tests. After the second test, their health was monitored for around eight years through various health records.
Clear Link Between Fitness and Health
The study found a strong connection between declining fitness and an increased risk of conditions like depression, anxiety, stroke, and vascular dementia. Men who improved their fitness levels from moderate to high between tests saw a reduced risk of anxiety. However, those whose fitness worsened were more likely to suffer from depression and anxiety.
How Cardio Training Boosts Your Health
Camilla Wiklund, a researcher in physical and mental health, commented on the study. She explained that exercise benefits the body and brain in several ways, including its anti-inflammatory effects. Physical activity also helps preserve brain size and flexibility, which can protect against mental health issues.
In addition, cardio exercises can lead to positive changes at the cellular and molecular levels in parts of the brain linked to mental illness, making it a powerful tool for maintaining both physical and mental health.
Final Thoughts
Maintaining good fitness is not just about looking or feeling better in the short term—it plays a key role in preventing serious health issues as we age. Regular exercise, especially cardio, supports both body and mind, reducing the risk of diseases and improving overall well-being.
