Older people who exercise also have smaller waists, in addition to not having as much excess weight in general. Doctors at UT Southwestern Medical Center say this is important because people who carry their weight around their abdomen are at a greater risk for heart disease and diabetes. Keeping a small waist means you don't have as much of the dangerous abdominal fat. Sports and other vigorous activities are the most effective for keeping the weight off the waistline. If you want to keep your youthful figure, though, you may have to work harder as you get older.
People naturally tend to gain weight as they age.
A recent study found that runners have to run just a little farther each year to keep the middle-aged spread at bay. If you decide you want to extend your life through exercise, check with your doctor to make sure you don't have a medical condition that makes exercise dangerous for you, especially if you haven't been active in a long time. Other Topics Health Watch is intended to provide general information only and should not replace the advice of a medical professional. You should contact your physician if you have questions about any of these topics.