Exercise and Aging: Walk Away from Father Time

For men who manage to avoid major medical problems, the changes that come along with aging are slow and gradual, but they do add up. The December issue of Harvard Men's Health Watch describes some things that aging can do to men -- and things that men can do to stop Father Time from taking his toll.

One of the main ways to keep the effects of aging at a minimum is exercise. "Exercise is not the fountain of youth," says Dr. Harvey Simon, editor in chief of Harvard Men's Health Watch, "but it is a good long drink of vitality, especially as part of a comprehensive program that includes aerobic exercise, strength training, and stretching."

Regular exercise helps people age more slowly and live healthier, more vigorous lives. And it also helps people live longer. Calculations based on the Harvard Alumni Study suggest that men who exercise regularly can gain about two hours of life expectancy for each hour of exercise. Over the course of a lifetime, that adds up to about two extra years. Maximum benefit does require regular exercise over the years, but it doesn't mean a trip to the gym every day. In fact, just 30 minutes of brisk walking every day will go a long way toward enhancing your health, says the Harvard Men's Health Watch.

The article includes a chart that shows the effects of aging and the effects of exercise on different functions of the body.

Also in this issue:

• Cancer of the penis
• Sexual activity and prostate cancer
• A doctor answers: Does chelation therapy work? Do I need to fast before a PSA test?