A study assessing the link between fitness and mortality, has been completed by the US Veterans Affairs Medical Centre in Washington. Nearly 16 ooo men, the largest number ever known in such a trial, were given a standard treadmill test to assess exercise capacity. Testing was conducted between May 1983 and December 2006, and participants were then followed for an average of 7.5 years and death rates were recorded.
The study found that “highly fit” men had only half the risk of death compared to “low fitness” men. Those who achieved “very highly fit” status, had a 70% lower risk compared to the “low fit” category. The authors say the risk of death is halved, simply by taking a brisk 30 minute walk, 5 to 6 days per week.
(Exercise Capacity & Mortality in Black and White Men. Journal of Circulation, 22 January 2008.)
Author: Robin Costello
I offer traditional Chinese acupuncture in Exeter, from a tranquil clinic a mile from the city centre, and next to the University of Exeter. I graduated originally from the London School of Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine’s 3 year full time Acupuncture Diploma (DipAc) course. I am on the practitioners register of the British Acupuncture Council (MBAcC), a regulatory and professional body with an entry standard of a full three year undergraduate degree level training.
I have worked in a hospital in south west China, deepening my knowledge and using acupuncture and Chinese massage (tuina) as the treatment of choice in its country of origin. I have taught Chinese medicine in colleges, the NHS and at university level. I also practise Qi Gong, and Chinese dietary therapy, that is the medicinal use of ordinary foods, chosen to help achieve particular therapeutic effects in different individuals.
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