Today I Learned (TIL)

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TIL Olympians live 5 years longer on average than the general population (bjsm.bmj.com)

submitted 4 months ago by [email protected] to c/[email protected]

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[–] [email protected] 5 points 4 months ago

Makes sense. I wouldn't think the average person taking on the exceptional training of Olympians would be good for you, but of those with the natural health and talent to try, Olympians are the ones who got that far without injuring themselves, and will therefore likely continue with some safe training with proper technique, and maintaining good health into old age. I'd imagine that benefit outweighs the damage extreme sports and training does to your body.

I'd assume that measuring generally fit people who exercise regularly and eat well, without pursuing the extremism of world class athleticism, would live even longer on average.