Why exercise is key to longevity

ARTICLE

1 April 2025

3 min read

Physical health Wellness

Want to live a longer, healthier life? How you move through it is key.

Heard of the AIA Vitality Zones? They’re 45 of the healthiest communities in Australia, where residents live up to eight years longer on average than the rest of the country.

Aside from their general commitment to better health, these thriving communities are some of the nation’s fittest, with 38% engaging in moderate-intense exercise 3-4 days a week, compared to the 32% national average. With 2 in 3 Aussies currently overweight or obese, those numbers start to stack up. So how can we improve our physical activity for our everyday wellbeing and future health?

We need to address the gap in the room

Most of us are exposed to some form of physical activity from a young age, but as we get older and life’s demands expand, exercise can fall down the list of priorities. So, while most of us recognise the importance of exercise, only 1 in 5 Aussies engage in enough weekly physical activity. Which begs the question: how can we close the exercise gap to be more attainable, accessible and fun again?

15 minutes make a difference

While our motivation to exercise may fluctuate, the benefits it provides are constant. Just think: every time you exercise, you’re improving your physical health, reducing your chances of chronic disease, boosting your energy levels, and supporting your mental wellbeing—benefits that only compound with age, enabling you to do the things you love for longer.

How to build exercise into your lifestyle

Start small and build gradually: Even a few minutes will benefit your body and help you build a habit without overwhelming yourself.
Prioritise consistency over intensity: Regular, moderate exercise often has more lasting benefits than infrequent, intense workouts.
Listen to your body: Be attentive to any aches and pains you feel while you move, modifying your exercises as needed and ensuring you’re well-rested to avoid injury.
Do things you enjoy: Finding some form of movement you enjoy will keep you motivated and consistent.
Think holistically: Support your exercise routine by taking care of your whole body, to ensure you get the most from every rep.

Move your body today to keep doing what you love tomorrow

The loud and often contradictory commentary that surrounds exercise can make the idea of working out overwhelming at times. That’s why I think it’s important to consider why—beyond the physical benefits—we move, and what movement gives us.

For me, exercise supported my athletic career then and allows me to keep doing the things I love as a 60-year-old today. It’s consistently kept me mentally strong and gives me energy for the day ahead. So, the next time you’re tired and puffed out, remind yourself why this movement matters.

Our bodies do so much for us every day, taking care of them by moving even a few minutes a day is the least we can do. Even better—it’s a free ticket to a healthier, longer life.

Footnotes

¹ https://www.abs.gov.au/statistics/health/health-conditions-and-risks/physical-activity/latest-release#:~:text=One%20in%20five%20(22.4%25),days%20in%20the%20last%20week.

Guy Leech

From his days as an Ironman to his current role as a wellbeing and fitness advocate, Guy Leech is dedicated to mentoring, running health and wellness events, and providing longevity programs specifically for the over 50’s. He also hosts The Longevity Lounge podcast interviewing industry experts, to ensure every Australian is well-equipped to live their best life. Discover the keys to a longer, healthier life with Guy Leech, as he focuses on maximizing HealthSpan and longevity.

Disclaimer:
Copyright © 2025 AIA Australia Limited (ABN 79 004 837 861 AFSL 230043). This is general information only, without taking into account factors like the objectives, financial situation, needs or personal circumstances of any individual and is not intended to be financial, legal, tax, medical, nutritional, health, fitness or other advice. The source information of the articles is current as of the date of publication and may be subject to change. While the information contained herein is believed to be accurate, AIA Australia expressly disclaims any and all liability for representations or warranties, expressed or implied, contained in, or for omissions from, the information.

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