While scientists have a good grasp on the general human lifespan, what they know less about is the human ‘healthspan’ – how quickly we slide into a state of serious decline.
In a study published in the Journal of Physiology, scientists put 125 cyclists (both male and female) ranging in age from 55 to 79 through a series of tests, to determine the health and strength of their heart, lungs, muscles, minds, hormones, balance, mood, and more. They found that cyclists who maintain a high level of physical activity are better off over time.
Even the oldest cyclists had generally healthy markers of cardiovascularand metabolic health, such as healthy, normal glucose, insulin, cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Their actual maximum heart rates were higher than for their nonactive peers.…