Jogging Adds Years to Life & Makes You Happier

Danish researchers have found that those who jog at least an hour a week can add an average of six more years to their life.

According to Dr. Peter Schnohr, chief cardiologist from the Copenhagen City Heart study, there is an "age-adjusted survival benefit of 6.2 years in men and 5.6 years in women."

And that longer life is often a happier life, he said, since joggers reported an overall sense of well-being.

You don't actually need to do that much to reap the benefits. The optimum benefit was realized for those who jogged at a slow-to-average pace between an hour and two and half hours done in two to three sessions over the course of a week.

Participants in the study ranged in age from 20 to 79.

So are you ever too old to jog? Probably not. 

According to LiveStrong.com, citing a Stanford University study, older Americans do not increase their chances of developing joint pain and arthritis by jogging regularly. The sedentary group in the study consistently reported more instances of pain and poor health compared with the running group. 

The web site recommends:

• Prior to beginning jogging, ensure that you have the proper shoes to prevent injury. Consult the staff at a specialty running store for fitting advice.
   
• Choosing terrain may also be important for accommodating any balance or stamina issues. If you lack confidence in these areas as you begin to jog, a well-populated indoor track is a safer option compared with a gravel or trail path.
   
• If you have a health condition, ensure that you have access to a communication device, such as a cell phone, while jogging. Manufacturers produce compact cell phones for use during physical activity.
   
• If you plan to jog in a sparsely populated area, inform someone about your route and estimated arrival and departure times.
   
• You may also jog with a friend to support your safety and your morale.

And of course consult your physician before starting any exercise program.