Physical fitness,not weight loss,key to longevity

Every unit of increased fitness (measured as MET,metabolic equivalent of task) over six years was associated with a 19 percent lower risk of heart disease and stroke-related deaths and a 15 percent lower risk of death from any cause.

Becoming less fit was linked to higher death risk,regardless of BMI changes.

“This is good news for people who are physically active but can’t seem to lose weight,” said Duck-chul Lee,the study’s lead researcher.

“You can worry less about your weight as long as you continue to maintain or increase your fitness levels.”