Newsletter Issue #3
In this issue, we highlight a new take on healthspan, a reporter loses it over a press-up, and we learn about a 3-minute tradition that's keeping Japan healthy.
Extending the boundaries of healthspan—introducing ‘Peakspan’
Just when we were getting used to all things healthspan, along comes another concept designed to reframe the way we think about ageing. This fascinating new research puts forward the idea that even though we might be free from disease, we may be living in a ‘healthy, but declined’ state.
Science Says “Healthspan” Doesn’t Equal Optimal Aging — Meet “Peakspan”
By Sela Breen, mindbodygreen.com
“The study notes that by age 50, a healthy individual has likely exited peakspan for most physiological and cognitive functions, yet they may still have 20 or more years of healthspan remaining. In other words, you can be ‘healthy’ by every clinical measure while operating below your former capacity.”
The phrase ‘use it or lose it’ is always painful when you discover you’re playing for ‘team lose it’
We’ve all been there. As a reasonably good tennis player, I once accepted a singles challenge from a 22-year-old coach—I was 55 at the time, but convinced I’d still ‘got it.’ That match cost me £500 for an ultrasound scan on ‘bruised kidneys’! Some people never learn…
I tried to do a press-up – and had an existential crisis
By Adrian Chiles, The Guardian
“I couldn’t do a single proper press-up. How had it come to this? I lay there face down, nose buried in a shaggy bedside rug, lamenting my decline.”
This daily Japanese exercise routine is still going strong after almost 100 years
This simple three-minute daily routine of gentle movements was designed to improve health, mobility and social connection across all generations.
Nearly a century later, ‘Rajio Taiso’ remains one of the most successful public health habits ever created, with around 27 million people still taking part at least twice a week.
Perhaps we’re a bit too individualistic in the West for mass morning exercise to fully catch on. But then again, people once said similar things about parkrun. Now thousands of people voluntarily turn up every weekend to walk, jog, run and chat before most people have finished their first coffee.
The lifelong exercise that keeps Japan moving
By William Park, BBC
“The three minute exercise mostly require planting your feet in one spot, shoulder-width apart. This makes it ideal for office workers, school children, the young and the elderly to do from behind desks, in groups, at the park, at home – anywhere.”
From the Blog 📚
What your resting heart rate reveals about your health
If you want to improve your fitness, it’s good to start with your heart. This simple measurement provides a useful benchmark for future progress. Also, our calculator gives you the opportunity to see how you measure up against people like you. It only takes 60 seconds, give it a try.
Feeling healthy for years to come starts with feeling good this afternoon
There’s more to life than chasing longevity. Investing in your future health is important, but don’t forget the you who wants to feel good today. This article shows you how.
One Last Thing…🌞
This week, try a ‘sunlight snack’—go outside for 5 minutes in the morning, at lunchtime and in the afternoon. Regular exposure to natural light helps with mood, energy and sleep, and a little walk does wonders for blood sugar regulation after a meal. Small changes, big benefits.
Medical Disclaimer: This article is for general information only and does not constitute medical advice. The needs of every reader are unique; please consult your GP or a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your diet, exercise routine, or medication. Never ignore professional medical advice because of something you read online.