You already know that exercise is good for you. But, did you know that it might even slow down biological aging? In an analysis published in a recent issue of the British Journal of Sports Medicine, researchers reported that people can delay aging and prolong an independent lifestyle in their later years by maintaining their aerobic fitness level.

Aerobic exercise, such as running, involves and improves oxygen consumption, as well as metabolism. Aerobic power is a measure of the body's ability to transport oxygen from the air to the body tissues and then to use that oxygen to break down metabolic fuels for energy. Maximum aerobic power begins to deteriorate in middle age and continues during the retirement years, and loss of independence in performing the tasks of daily living seems to be associated with reductions in maximal oxygen intake.

In this study, the researchers found that high intensity aerobic exercise over a long period increased maximum aerobic power by 25%, an increase which corresponds to a gain of 10-12 biological years. This increase in aerobic power and oxygen intake could potentially slow or reverse functional deterioration, preserving independence during the retirement years. Potential added benefits of aerobic exercise in middle age are improved mood or outlook and better coordination and balance, reducing the risk of falls.