A study has shown that people with less flexibility have a higher risk of death compared to those who are more flexible.

The research team from the Brazil Exercise Medicine Clinic analyzed approximately 3,000 adults aged 46 to 65. The team assessed the participants' flexibility using the Flex Index test.

 

The Flex Index is a test measure used to assess people's flexibility.

▲ Sitting with legs extended straight and bending the upper body while stretching the arms

▲Raise your right hand above your head and stretch it toward your left shoulder

Assess the flexibility of the joints used when performing actions such as lying face down on the floor and raising the arms upward.

 

Flexibility scores are measured through two sessions: one where participants perform stretching exercises on their own and another where they receive assistance from a third party.

At the end of the study, 10% of the participants had died. The survivors had Flex Index scores approximately 10% higher than the deceased.

 

Analysis results showed that individuals with higher Flex Index scores had a greater probability of survival over the next 10 years compared to those with lower scores. Women with low Flex Index scores had about five times higher risk of death than women with high scores. Men with low Flex Index scores had about twice the risk of death compared to women with high scores.

 

Flexibility is an indicator of overall physical health along with balance. Developing flexibility can prevent muscle weakening such as sarcopenia caused by aging, helping to maintain a healthy body. Lack of flexibility can lead to direct injuries such as fractures when experiencing falls. If unable to move during recovery or if hospitalized, muscle weakness and health complications may occur.

 

Dr. Claudio Gil S. Araújo, who led the research, stated, "A decrease in physical flexibility is associated with lower survival rates in middle-aged and older adults," and added, "Since flexibility declines with age, it is advisable to include stretching in daily routines."

 

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Let's stretch out and stretch.

There is no flexibility to touch the legs with the stomach.

Fingers touch the foot.

If you develop the habit a bit more, flexibility will improve.