Brighter men reach middle age in better shape

INTELLIGENT men are more likely to be in good physical shape when they’re middle-aged, a study has found.

The research showed that a man’s physical performance between ages 48 and 56 is to some extent determined by his level of intellect. A higher intelligence score in early adulthood ‘shows clearly’ with stronger backs, legs and hands during midlife.

It is thought to be the first time such a link has been made by researchers.

Researchers at the Centre for Healthy Ageing at the University of Copenhagen found that those with better intellect were more likely to remain independent as they age. The study, published in the Journal of Aging and Health, comprised 2,848 Danish males born in 1953 and in 1959-61. It employed a number of tests, including balance, ‘chairrise’ – the ease with which people get up from a sitting position – and hand grip strength, when measuring physical performance.

Researcher Rikke Hodal Meincke said: ‘Our study clearly shows that the higher intelligence score in early adulthood, the stronger the participants’ back, legs and hands are in midlife. Their balance is also better. Former studies have taught us that the better the results of these midlife tests, the greater the chance of avoiding a decrease in physical performance in old age.’

The researchers say that greater strength makes it easier to stay physically active throughout life and cope with every day activities such as getting dressed and carrying out shopping.

‘A feasible explanation for this connection between male intelligence in early adulthood and their midlife physical performance could be that people with a higher intelligence score find it easier to understand and interpret health information and thus have a healthier lifestyle,’ said Miss Meincke. ‘They may, for instance, exercise more regularly.’

The study’s results are important for the future planning and targeting of initiatives that may help improve or maintain physical performance among the elderly, she added.

This could include making it easier for everybody, regardless of abilities, to remain physically active throughout their lives.

Miss Meincke stressed that more studies were needed in order to examine the mechanisms that link intelligence and fitness.