The magic of exercise

eXerCise is good for the body and brain, no matter what your age — but exercising in later life can help you age ‘optimally’.

research shows any physical exercise in older age — running, walking, dancing or yoga — can keep ill health at bay.

‘From your mid-30s on, you start to lose muscle, which can affect balance and make you more likely to have a fall,’ explains Dr Phil riley, consultant in musculoskeletal, sport and exercise medicine at Pure sports medicine Clinic, london.

‘but you can ward against it by doing resistance work with weights or bands or even carrying heavy shopping or pushing a lawn mower. it doesn’t matter what age you start, it’s not too late to benefit.’

Professor stephen harridge, director of the Centre for human and Applied Physiological sciences at King’s College london, agrees.

his recent study with the University of birmingham found some signs of ageing are made worse by inactivity — but can be avoided if you’re fit.