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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Lifestyle
Phil Daoust

Is 61 too old to take up gymnastics? Not if you’re planning on living to 100

Daoust practises the front tuck with coach Matteo Cara.
‘It’s magic! It’s terrifying!’ … Daoust practises the front tuck with coach Matteo Cara. Photograph: Anselm Ebulue/The Guardian

How do you know when it’s time to slow down? I’ve been wondering that ever since I decided to live to 100. Sure, I may not make it; but if I do I expect exercise to play a huge part, alongside a healthy diet and (seriously, kids, this really isn’t rocket science) evidence-based medicine rather than wellness influencers and coffee enemas.

Bone density, muscle mass and cardiorespiratory fitness all decline as we get older; mobility and balance also take a hit. Exercise can slow or reverse most of this, and help protect our brains. It doesn’t guarantee a long and independent life but it does make it more likely.

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