Greater flexibility linked with longer lives

A recent study published in the Scandinavian Journal of Medicine & Science in Sports (August 2024) suggests that increased joint flexibility might be linked to a longer life.

The study involved 3,139 participants aged 46 to 65, with men making up 66% of the group. Researchers assessed each participant's range of motion across seven key areas—ankles, shoulders, knees, spine, wrists, hips, and elbows—and assigned them an overall flexibility score, reports Harvard Health Publishing. 

Over a follow-up period of approximately 13 years, researchers found a notable association between flexibility and longevity. Men with low flexibility scores were nearly twice as likely to die during the study period compared to those with higher scores.

Although the study established an association rather than a causal relationship, the findings highlight the potential benefits of flexibility for older adults. The researchers suggested that improved flexibility can enhance mobility and reduce pain, enabling individuals to stay active—an essential factor for longevity.

This study adds to the growing body of evidence emphasising the importance of maintaining physical activity and mobility in promoting long-term health and well-being.