People who believe in astrology often spend huge amounts of money to know their future. Especially the question, “how long will I live?” intrigues most people. I do not have much regard for the roadside fortune tellers. But there are more scientific ways to predict life expectancy. In this article, I have listed 5 physical tests that had been found to predict longevity.
Sitting rising exercise
The most popular test for longevity, the sitting rising test involves sitting in a cross leg from standing and getting up from that position without taking any support. For both halves of the test 5 marks are assigned. One mark is cut each time you use a hand on a knee support. Half mark is deducted if you wobble.
The researchers grouped the performances in four different categories. They found people who scored between 8 to 10 had the least chances of mortality. On the other hand, who scored between 0-3 were most vulnerable.
Push up as a predictor of longevity
It appears that how many times you can perform push-up continuously can predict your longevity. The scientific basis of this claim comes from a study on firefighters. In that study, it was found that people who were able to perform more than 40 push-ups at a go had a significantly lower risk of mortality compared to people available to perform less than 10 push ups. What increases the relevance of this piece of statistic is, the age of the population studied for this search was 18+ years while most other longevity studies were performed in an elderly population.
Walking fast to escape death
Looks like the elderly people who can walk fast will live longer than the average. The elderly population who have an average walking speed of point 8 metres per second will have a normal life expectancy. Walking speed of over one meter per second is associated with significantly higher life expectancy. Lifespan is predicted to be exceptionally high if the walking speed is greater than 1.2 metres per second.
Hand grip
Grip strength measure how much force one can produce through grasping. Grip strength varies among different types of populations. For example, the average Indian grip strength for the male is 37.8 kg, for females it is 22.1 2kg.
Various studies found higher the grip strength longer is the lifespan. This study measured the grip strength of the elderly population from Moscow, Denmark and England and they found 1 kg increase in grip strength increases survival by 5% in Moscow 6% in Denmark, and 3% in England.
Mid arm muscle circumference
This is the most direct measure. Simple inch tape measurement of mid-arm muscle circumference can predict lifespan. It means that elderly people who have preserved their muscle mass will survive longer.
All these five measures are research-based and all of them point towards one single direction that is, people who have maintained their physical ability and strength will live longer. If you have elderly people in your house encourage them to do regular physical activities in a safe environment.
If you are planning to use any of the above five tests on yourself or your near and dear ones, take all the precautions to prevent fall or injury.
About the author
Dr Subhanjan Das (PT)
BPT, MPT (MSk & Sports), CMP(NZ), Diploma in football medicine (FIFA)
Consultant Physiotherapist of Apollo & Reliva Clinic, HSR Layout, Bangalore
Contact: +91 8967549104
Dr Subhanjan Das (PT) has over 14 years of clinical and 12 years of academic experience. A friendly professional with lots of patience and skilful hands, Dr Subhanjan has worked with thousands of his patients for instant relief of pain and rapid return to activities. He has treated elite athletes for recovery, injury prevention and performance enhancement.
Dr Das is specialized in Orthopaedic and sports physiotherapy and has keeps himself updated with the latest advancements in the field of physiotherapy. He has undergone training on advanced orthopaedic techniques such as Dry Needling, Mulligan Concept, McKenzie method, Pilates, Cupping therapy, McConnel and kinesio taping from the best faculties around the world.
Dr Das has taught in 5 universities across India and has trained physiotherapists in 50+ workshops within and outside India.
Effective for daily life to main a healthy Life style.
Great write up for all Life enthusiasts.
Deep sense of Appreciation forDr Subhanjan Das.
Hope to keep us updated in future.
Regards
Thank you!
Dr.Das, As per your advice I am maintaining regular exercise. No back pain. Presently I am very much fit. Thank you for your advice.
Dr. Das, As per your advice I am maintaining regular exercise. Presently I am very much fit.
You were always!