Exercise can halve risk of ill health

Older people can halve their risk of developing a potentially fatal disease by exercising much more than is currently advised, according to new research.

A study of more than 1,500 over-50s found those who were most active were twice as likely to avoid heart disease, cancer, diabetes, angina or a stroke.

Their chances of being in the best possible physical and mental shape a decade later were also boosted by just as much compared to those who led sedentary lifestyles.