Certain sports can add up to 10 years to your life expectancy compared to a sedentary lifestyle, while others statistically extend existence by “only” 3 years, reports Le Figaro.
Playing three hours of tennis per week, for instance, adds an average of 9.7 years to an individual’s life, a statistical observation made across thousands of people.
This number drops to 6.2 years for badminton, squash, and table tennis, and 4.7 years for team sports. Football was the primary sport used as a benchmark for team sports.
“This is likely one of the most unexpected results of the ranking. Team sports, often perceived as riskier or reserved for younger individuals, are nonetheless among the disciplines most associated with longevity,” writes Le Figaro. “Why? Because these sports combine several types of benefits. The body constantly alternates intense efforts and recovery, with sprints, changes of direction, and calmer phases. But one also needs to anticipate, make quick decisions, read the game, and react to others. Added to this is a strong social dimension, which often promotes regular long-term practice.”
Paraphrased and Translated Text:
Engaging in certain athletic activities can extend life expectancy by as much as a decade when contrasted with a sedentary lifestyle, whereas others contribute a more modest statistical increase of around 3 years, as highlighted by Le Figaro.
An individual who dedicates three hours weekly to tennis can anticipate an average gain of 9.7 years in their lifespan, a finding supported by statistical data gathered from a large cohort.
For racquet sports like badminton, squash, and table tennis, the life extension is approximately 6.2 years. Team sports, with football serving as the principal reference, are associated with an average increase of 4.7 years.
“This finding is arguably one of the most surprising in the ranking. Despite being frequently viewed as more hazardous or suitable only for the young, team sports are remarkably linked to increased longevity,” states Le Figaro. “The reason is that these activities offer a multifaceted array of advantages. They involve continuous cycles of high-intensity exertion and rest, incorporating sprints, abrupt directional changes, and periods of lower activity. Furthermore, they demand foresight, rapid decision-making, strategic understanding, and responsiveness to fellow participants. The significant social component inherent in team sports also frequently encourages sustained participation over extended periods.”
