Could you find 10 minutes in your day to increase your physical activity? It might be lifesaving, according to a new study.

In fact, the researchers reported, “More than 110,000 U.S. deaths could be prevented each year if adults over 40 added 10 minutes of daily moderate to vigorous physical activity to their normal routines.”

The study examined “the activity levels of nearly 5,000 participants ages 40 to 85 and tracked death rates through the end of 2015.” Similar benefits were observed for men and women and for Mexican American, non-Hispanic Black, and non-Hispanic White adults.

The investigators said, “To our knowledge, this is the first study to estimate the number of preventable deaths through physical activity using accelerometer-based measurements among US adults.”

“We have reported previously that even a little bit of exercise can result in health benefits,” said one of the researchers. “This study doesn’t focus on the benefits for individuals, but rather at the level of the population. We can make our nation healthier by encouraging everyone to add an additional 10 minutes of activity or more each day.”

The findings were published in JAMA Internal Medicine.

© Copyright WLL, INC. 2022. This blog provides healthcare tips and advice that you can trust about a wide variety of general health information only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment from your regular physician. If you are concerned about your health, take what you learn from this blog and meet with your personal doctor to discuss your concerns.