Physical Activity Across Adulthood and Physical Performance in Midlife Findings from a British Birth Cohort
2011

Physical Activity and Performance in Midlife

Sample size: 2442 publication 10 minutes Evidence: high

Author Information

Author(s): Rachel Cooper, Gita D. Mishra, Diana Kuh

Primary Institution: MRC Unit for Lifelong Health and Ageing, University College London

Hypothesis

Does leisure-time physical activity across adulthood improve physical performance and strength in midlife?

Conclusion

Increased physical activity throughout adulthood leads to better physical performance in midlife.

Supporting Evidence

  • Physical activity at ages 36, 43, and 53 positively affected chair rise performance.
  • Cumulative benefits of physical activity were observed across adulthood.
  • Men showed stronger grip strength associated with physical activity at age 53.

Takeaway

Being active throughout your life helps you stay strong and balanced when you get older.

Methodology

The study analyzed data from a British birth cohort, assessing physical activity at ages 36, 43, and 53 and its effects on physical performance measures.

Potential Biases

Self-reported measures may not accurately reflect actual physical activity levels.

Limitations

The study relies on self-reported physical activity data, which may introduce bias.

Participant Demographics

Participants were men and women from a British birth cohort born in March 1946.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.01

Statistical Significance

p<0.01

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1016/j.amepre.2011.06.035

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