Just one run a week could save you from early grave

GOING for a run just once a week could be enough to cut the risk of early death by a quarter, research suggests.

The analysis involving more than 230,000 people found those who regularly headed out for a jog – no matter how fast or far – had far lower death rates. The research found any amount of running was linked to a 27 per cent reduction in mortality from any cause.

Regular runners also saw a 30 per cent lower risk of heart death and a 23 per cent reduction in the chance of dying from cancer.

Researchers from Victoria University in Melbourne examined 14 studies that looked at the links between running and mortality rates. They found even the smallest amount – such as one run a week of less than 50 minutes – was enough to have a significant impact on mortality.

There was no evidence to suggest that doing more than this conferred a greater benefit, they found.

In the review, published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, scientists analysed results from 14 studies of 232,149 people, whose health was tracked for between 5.5 and 35 years.

Researchers said the findings suggest that running could be a good option for those whose main obstacle to taking exercise is a lack of time. NHS guidance says all adults should get 150 minutes “moderate” exercise weekly, or else 75 minutes of vigorous movement, such as running. But four in 10 people aged 40 to 60 fail to manage a brisk 10-minute walk even once a month, Public Health England warned.