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A recent article on Health.com titled “Flexibility, Mobility, and Longevity” sheds light on the significant association between physical flexibility and longevity.
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Study Findings
A recent study published in the Scandinavian Journal of Medicine & Science in Sports found that higher flexibility was associated with a lower likelihood of death from natural causes, such as cardiovascular disease, in middle-aged men and women.
The study utilized the Flexitest, which assesses flexibility across seven joints and 20 body movements. It included data from over 3,000 participants aged 46 to 65. The results revealed that women who scored lowest in flexibility were five times more likely to die prematurely compared to those who scored highest, while men were two times more likely.
Importance of Flexibility
Flexibility is crucial for overall health and physical fitness. It helps reduce the risk of injury, increases blood flow, and promotes muscle recovery post-workout.
Flexibility declines as people age, starting from childhood and becoming more prominent in middle age due to joint stiffness.
Assessing and Improving Flexibility
The Flexitest
The Flexitest is a comprehensive assessment tool that evaluates flexibility in various joints, including the knees, shoulders, hips, trunk, ankles, and wrists.
Simple Tests
Simple tests like the sit and reach test, Apley’s scratch test, and Thomas test can also help measure flexibility.
Improving Flexibility
Regular exercise, including activities like yoga, Tai Chi, Pilates, and barre, can improve flexibility. Incorporating 30 minutes of flexibility training three times a week can significantly enhance flexibility.
Impact on Longevity
The study suggests that greater flexibility may contribute to a longer lifespan by reflecting an individual’s overall physical fitness and health status. Poor flexibility is associated with increased mortality risk, possibly due to underlying health issues like chronic conditions, sedentary lifestyle, inflammation, and psychosocial factors.
Recommendations
Experts recommend static and dynamic stretching to enhance flexibility. Incorporating these exercises into daily routines can help improve mobility and reduce the risk of premature death.
Regular stretching can be done anywhere, including at home or at work, by extending and flexing joints such as the ankles and wrists.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the association between flexibility, mobility, and longevity is evident from the study findings and expert recommendations. Emphasizing flexibility training not only contributes to physical fitness but also potentially extends one’s lifespan.
FAQ
Q: How often should one incorporate flexibility training into their routine?
A: Experts recommend 30 minutes of flexibility training three times a week for optimal benefits.
Q: What are some activities that can improve flexibility?
A: Activities like yoga, Tai Chi, Pilates, and barre are excellent for improving flexibility.
Q: What are simple tests to measure flexibility?
A: The sit and reach test, Apley’s scratch test, and Thomas test are easy methods to measure flexibility.
Q: How does flexibility contribute to longevity?
A: Greater flexibility is associated with reduced mortality risk, possibly due to improved overall physical fitness and health.
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