You just need to have this accessory on hand.
To stay in shape, prevent diseases and age healthily, sport is essential. But not all physical activities are equal when it comes to longevity. Sports practices such as walking or yoga have their merits. They promote flexibility, reduce stress and improve cardiovascular health and mood. But one sport in particular appears to outperform others in extending lifespan.
This exercise combines moderate intensity, pleasure and conviviality. One last important argument. Human interactions are very important when playing sports because they increase the well-being of the effort. It is therefore advisable to favor sports with others rather than alone. And according to a study published in Mayo Clinic Proceedingsthe best sport for living longer is the one played with a racket.
According to the figures published by its authors, tennis is at the top of the sports capable of extending life expectancy. In the study, tennis players lived on average 10 years longer than sedentary people. Just behind, we find the badminton fans who lived 6 years longer. Performances that exceed those of football, swimming or even jogging enthusiasts, as longevity expert Dan Buettner points out in a video posted on Instagram. “Walking, swimming or running every day increases your life expectancy by 3 years, but the activity that will save you the most years is one that involves using a snowshoe.”
Why such an impact? In addition to promoting social interactions, racket sports work the entire body, improve coordination and strengthen the cardiovascular system. To this is often added an outdoor practice, reinforcing exposure to natural light and stimulating the production of vitamin D. For those who do not necessarily have sufficient physical condition for tennis (even if it is a sport often practiced over the age of 60), know that there is a lightweight alternative that is just as effective: pickleball. This racquet sport, similar to light tennis, is suitable for all ages and recommended by Dan Buettner. Pickleball increases agility, coordination and muscular endurance. Why not try?