A Simple 10-Second Test To Predict Your Longevity
Everyone knows that cardiovascular fitness is vital to living a long and healthy life, but did you know that having flexibility, strength, and coordination are just as important? And there is a simple test you can challenge your self with to determine your longevity.
In a Brazilian study, researchers tracked 2002 men and women aged 51-80 over a period of time and found that those who needed to use their hands to get up from the floor or a chair were 7 times more likely to die within 6 years than those who could get up without support. Claudio Gil Soares de Araújo, professor at Gama Filho University in Rio de Janeiro, who authored the study says “…our study shows that maintaining high levels of body flexibility, muscle strength, and coordination also has a favorable influence on life expectancy.” https://www.prevention.com/fitness/fitness-tips/a20440531/the-stand-sit-test-that-predicts-longevity/
Here is a test that measures those 3 factors (flexibility, strength, and coordination):
From a standing position, sit down on the floor without the support of your hands, then stand back up–again without using your hands.
Seems pretty simple, but it is a little tricky. (Hint: cross your feet on the way down, and rock your body forward to shift your weight over your feet when you stand up)
Give it a try yourself!
If you can do, great! Keep up with what you’re doing. Re-test yourself periodically to stay on top of your game.
So what if you can’t do it at this time? What if you do need to use your hands or knees to get up?
Take it as a sign to start working on your strength and mobility. It’s never too late to start! One of my clients started with me when she was 89 years old. In a short period of time she made great improvements. If she could do it, so could you!
If you have any health issues, always check with your doctor before starting any kind of exercise routine, but a couple of simple bodyweight exercises you can do to start making improvements are:
- Squats
- Planks
- Pushups (start from a countertop or sturdy railing and work your way lower until you can do them from the floor on your toes)
- Yoga
I’d also recommend finding a great trainer that can show you how to exercise properly, learn good form, and make sure you avoid injuring yourself.
We’re always here to help. If you have any questions, please contact us.
Please share this post with people you care about–a parent or other family member, friend, coworker, etc.–they may want to try this themselves. It can be very eye-opening!