DON’T bother with running or cycling

– tennis is the sport that best protects against age-related health problems, according to a new study.

Under three hours of tennis every week was linked to stronger muscles and bones in 43 adults aged up to 65 – protecting them from common conditions such as osteoporosis and osteoarthritis in later life.

A control group of 47 in the study at Liverpool Hope University, who took part in exercises such as running and cycling, did not see the same benefits.

Poor musculoskeletal function increases the risk of developing muscle and bone-wasting conditions, which account for a third of all British GP appointments.