Overcoming Genetic Predisposition With Exercise
The relationship between longevity, genes and physical activity.
Can you overcome genetics with exercise? Whether you have a genetic predisposition for a longer or shorter life, your lifespan can be influenced by increasing exercise and physical activity, according to science. University of California, San Diego researchers from the Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health and Human Longevity Science conducted an 8-year study of more than 5,000 women ages 63 and older.
“The goal of this research was to understand whether associations between physical activity and sedentary time with death varied based on different levels of genetic predisposition for longevity,” said lead study author Alexander Posis, MPH, a PhD student at the San Diego State University/UC San Diego Joint Doctoral Program in Public Health.
“Our study showed that, even if you aren’t likely to live long based on your genes, you can still extend your lifespan by engaging in positive lifestyle behaviors such as regular exercise and sitting less,” added study author Aladdin H. Shadyab, PhD, assistant professor at UC San Diego. “Conversely, even if your genes predispose you to a long life, remaining physically active is still important to achieve longevity.”
Research findings are available in the Journal of Aging and Physical Activity (2022; doi:10.1123/japa.2022-0067).
Shirley Eichenberger-Archer, JD, MA
Shirley Eichenberger-Archer, JD, MA, is an internationally acknowledged integrative health and mindfulness specialist, best-selling author of 16 fitness and wellness books translated into multiple languages and sold worldwide, award-winning health journalist, contributing editor to Fitness Journal, media spokesperson, and IDEA's 2008 Fitness Instructor of the Year. She's a 25-year industry veteran and former health and fitness educator at the Stanford Prevention Research Center, who has served on multiple industry committees and co-authored trade books and manuals for ACE, ACSM and YMCA of the USA. She has appeared on TV worldwide and was a featured trainer on America's Next Top Model.
