Just 5 more minutes of exercise and 30 minutes of less sitting can reduce premature death risk by 10%, finds study

Study suggests 10% of all premature deaths could be prevented with meaningful, doable lifestyle changes. (Picture Credit: Pexels)

• Just five extra minutes of exercise daily linked to 10% drop in mortality
• Sitting 30 minutes less each day may lower overall mortality by 7%
• Small lifestyle changes can help prevent 10% of premature deaths

Did our AI summary help?

When it comes to fitness, most people begin by setting targets that are difficult to achieve. Either they end up feeling frustrated or doing nothing at all. However, that shouldn’t be the case, as even small lifestyle changes can make a big impact.

New research says sneaking in just five extra minutes of exercise and sitting less by half an hour each day could help you live longer. This is contrary to what earlier evidence for reducing the number of premature deaths suggested - that it is important to meet specific targets. It neglected the fact that even a minor uptick in physical activity could help a great deal.

What the study says

The study, which analysed data from 135,000 people in the UK, US, Norway, and Sweden, found that even moderate-intensity physical exercise was linked to a 10% drop in mortality. So while big targets may be a tad unrealistic, little changes can add up and prove useful.

Also read: Doctor says these 3 medicines can save a heart attack patient

Conducted by researchers from the Norwegian School of Sport Sciences, the study, published in The Lancet, also reported that spending 30 minutes less time being sedentary each day was linked to an estimated 7% decrease in overall mortality.

The largest benefits were observed among the least active 20% of people, who increased their physical activity by just five minutes each day.

While it is no surprise that physical activity has always been highly recommended by health experts, this study indicated how 10% of all premature deaths could be prevented with meaningful, doable lifestyle changes. Minor tweaks like five more minutes of exercise and half an hour less of sitting every day can lead to big gains, as suggested by the study.

Benefits of physical exercise

Physical exercise has many benefits, starting with the fact that it helps prevent weight gain. The more you exercise, the more calories you burn. This helps keep chronic diseases at bay, reducing your chances of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, among others.

Also read: Man donated his sperm with cancer-causing gene to conceive over 200 children; Here's what happened next

For those with hectic jobs and busy schedules, it helps reduce stress and improve mood. This is good for your brain. Workouts also give you more energy and build strength and stamina. Any physical activity during the day also helps you sleep better.

FAQs on factors that increases premature death risk:

1. What does premature death mean?

It refers to death occurring earlier than the average life expectancy, often due to preventable causes.

2. Which lifestyle factors raise the risk of premature death?

Smoking, physical inactivity, poor diet, excessive alcohol intake, and chronic stress.

3. How does lack of exercise affect lifespan?

Sedentary behaviour increases the risk of heart disease, diabetes, obesity, and early mortality.

4. Can poor sleep increase premature death risk?

Yes, consistently getting too little or poor-quality sleep is linked to higher risk of chronic illness and early death.

5. Do mental health and social isolation play a role?

Yes, long-term stress, depression, and loneliness are associated with higher premature death risk.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.