Engaging in weight training for just 90 minutes to two hours each week can significantly reduce the risk of premature death, according to a new study. Researchers found that consistent resistance training lowers the likelihood of early death from any cause by 13 percent.
Health Benefits of Weight Training
The study, published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, tracked over 147,000 individuals for up to 30 years. It revealed that weight training also reduces the risk of early death from heart disease and stroke by 19 percent, and from neurological diseases by 27 percent. These benefits persist even when other physical activities, such as aerobic exercise, are taken into account.
Combining Aerobic and Strength Training
The lowest mortality risks were observed among participants who engaged in high levels of both aerobic and strength training. Current NHS guidelines advise adults to perform strength activities targeting all major muscle groups at least twice a week, alongside 150 minutes of moderate or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity.
Health experts emphasize that incorporating weight training into a weekly routine can provide substantial long-term health benefits, potentially adding years to life expectancy.
