Research: Exercise Can Slow Aging Down to Your DNA

Research: Exercise Can Slow Aging Down to Your DNA
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New research shows that regular exercise can slow the aging process at a cellular level, right down to your DNA, Earth.com reported. According to a study published in the journal Aging-US, physical activity can reduce a person’s biological age, which is a measure of the wear and tear on their body, as opposed to their chronological age.

Researchers at Tohoku University reviewed evidence linking physical activity to slower “epigenetic aging,” which is measured by “epigenetic clocks” that track DNA methylation patterns. The study found that while any movement is beneficial, structured and repetitive exercise—particularly at a moderate to vigorous intensity—appears to trigger the most profound cellular changes.

For example, one trial cited in the article revealed that sedentary, middle-aged women who engaged in a combination of aerobic and strength training for just eight weeks reduced their biological age by two years. The research indicates that higher levels of cardiorespiratory fitness are associated with a slower pace of epigenetic aging. The benefits extend beyond muscles, with animal studies showing slower aging in the heart, liver, and fat tissue. This suggests that maintaining regular physical activity and purposeful training can help keep your cells younger for years to come.