Abstract
Aging is a natural and complex physiological process influenced by many factors, some
of which are modifiable. As the number of older individuals continues to increase,
it is important to develop interventions that can be easily implemented and contribute
to “successful aging”. In addition to a healthy diet and psychosocial well-being,
the benefits of regular exercise on mortality, and the prevention and control of chronic
disease affecting both life expectancy and quality of life are well established. We
summarize the benefits of regular exercise on longevity, present the current knowledge
regarding potential mechanisms, and outline the main recommendations. Exercise can
partially reverse the effects of the aging process on physiological functions and
preserve functional reserve in the elderly. Numerous studies have shown that maintaining
a minimum quantity and quality of exercise decreases the risk of death, prevents the
development of certain cancers, lowers the risk of osteoporosis and increases longevity.
Training programs should include exercises aimed at improving cardiorespiratory fitness
and muscle function, as well as flexibility and balance. Though the benefits of physical
activity appear to be directly linked to the notion of training volume and intensity,
further research is required in the elderly, in order to develop more precise recommendations,
bearing in mind that the main aim is to foster long-term adherence to physical activity
in this growing population.
Keywords
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Article info
Publication history
Published online: October 01, 2012
Accepted:
September 13,
2012
Received in revised form:
September 12,
2012
Received:
July 9,
2012
Identification
Copyright
© 2012 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
